Published in Scientific Papers. Series E. Land Reclamation, Earth Observation & Surveying, Environmental Engineering, Vol. XIV
Written by Andreea HEGYI, Gabriela CĂLĂTAN, Cristian PETCU, Stefan BAKOS, Alexandra CSAPAI
Since time immemorial, mankind has sought solutions to the problem of creating sustainable living spaces that provide thermal comfort and good indoor air quality. One of the most prevalent techniques has been the construction of buildings from clay-based materials. Nevertheless, even at the present time, this method is still insufficiently regulated by generalised regulations. The principal issue is the diversity of raw material characteristics, which necessitates a considerable number of preliminary tests and a lengthy period of time. This paper puts forward an interdisciplinary methodology for the analysis of clayey earth, with a view to determining the potential applications of this material in the production of adobe-brick masonry elements and plastering mortars for vernacular construction. The research methodology entailed a pedological analysis of 30 clay soil samples sourced from Mârgău and Ciucea region, Cluj, followed by an evaluation of their suitability for construction applications. The experimental findings have indicated the potential for establishing limiting conditions regarding the clay, sand, and dust content of the soils, in conjunction with pH, humus, and carbonate levels.
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