Theresa Zschäbitz*, Selina Vaculik*, Thomas Matschei*, Alex Seiter*, Martin Trautz*, Ken De Cooman*, Laurens Bekemans*.
This research focuses on developing sustainable building solutions by replacing conventional steel and concrete systems with hybrid composite materials from clay, natural fibres, and wood. The aim is to create resource-efficient, load-bearing components while reducing carbon emissions through biological materials with fast regrowth and long sequestration.
The study explores clay as a binder for horizontal structural components, integrating natural fibre reinforcements and profiled wooden rods to optimise material use, minimise wood consumption, and enhance the performance of the composites. Through prototyping and testing, the project seeks to demonstrate the feasibility of these earth and biofiber-based composites in construction, highlighting their potential for efficient, low-carbon, and cost-effective solutions.
Link Paper:
https://publications.rwth-aachen.de/record/1010758/files/1010758.pdf
Link Poster:
https://publications.rwth-aachen.de/record/1010418/files/1010418.pdf