Compressive strength of fibre reinforced earth plasters for straw bale buildings

An experimental study into the compressive strength of fibre reinforced earth plasters is presented. The plaster material is composed of cohesive soil and sand. Three types of natural fibers are used as reinforcement, namely, wheat straw, barley straw and wood shavings. Ten different types of plasters with different compositions of earth materials and reinforcement are investigated. The fiber has positive effect on both the strength and ductility of plasters. While the fibre has remarkable effect on the strength and ductility of plasters, its effect on the elastic modulus of plasters is relatively small.