Research project CLAYBLOC
Load-bearing earth bricks based on recycled granulates from gypsum extraction residues and Thuringian clay deposits
Project name Load-bearing earth bricks based on recycled granulates from gypsum extraction residues and Thuringian clay deposits
Acronym CLAYBLOC
Project partner
  • Technische Universität Darmstadt, Institute of Solid Construction
  • IAB Institut für Angewandte Bauforschung Weimar gemeinnützige GmbH
  • Lehmbaustoffe Michael Kockelmann
Grantor Bundesministerium für Wirtschaft und Klimaschutz: Zentrales Innovationsprogramm Mittelstand (ZIM)
Duration 01.01.2023 – 31.03.2025 (27 months)

Research field
 M+M (and E+E)
(E+E > Energy + Environment
I+I > Information + Intelligence
M+M > Matter + Materials)
Project content The aim of the project is to develop load-bearing earth bricks and earth masonry walls based on recycled granulates from gypsum extraction residues and Thuringian clay deposits. By combining the traditional building material clay with lightweight granulates, load-bearing earth bricks can be produced in a similar way to lightweight concrete. The multi-component composition is interesting in a sense that building products with new product properties can be manufactured. A stockpile material from CASEA GmbH, a mixture of clay and gypsum, serves as the raw material for the lightweight granulates. In order to develop the load-bearing earth bricks, the clay formulation is being optimized and various brick configurations are being investigated. To evaluate the different earth bricks, they are subjected to hygrothermal and mechanical material tests in accordance with DIN 18945. Furthermore, innovative earth mortar formulations are developed and experimentally tested in accordance to DIN 18946. In addition, the new type of earth brick is used to develop innovative wall systems, which are used to test the practical application of load-bearing, insulated exterior walls made of earth brick masonry.