Compressed Earth Block
This is a collection of research. I am interested in CEB, stabilized with lime and covered in lime plaster. This combination looks to be cheap and provide great thermal and structural properties
Vermeer BP714
An interesting press.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9cDy9XkXPw
Detailed Article
http://unesdoc.unesco.org/images/0012/001282/128236e.pdf
The beginning talks about easy soil tests. It also addresses soil layers. On site, we should start by digging a small deep hole and testing soil every few inches.
On page 30 it talks about gypsum stabilization as an alternative to lime. However, lime may be better for clay soils which is what I am likely to encounter in Michigan.
Preparation
- Make soil uniform by mixing and passing through 5mm sieve