CSEB Block Making & Arch Construction Workshop at Earth Institute, Auroville
This hands-on workshop focused on sustainable earth architecture, providing practical training in compressed stabilized earth block (CSEB) manufacturing and the structural mechanics of traditional masonry arches.
Key Takeaways & Practical Training
1. CSEB (Compressed Stabilized Earth Block) Production
Soil Testing & Selection: Identifying suitable soil compositions (balancing sand, silt, and clay fractions) for optimal block stability.
Stabilization: Mixing earth with precise ratios of stabilizer (typically 5–8% cement or lime) to achieve water resistance and structural strength.
Compaction & Curing: Operating manual block-presses (such as the Auram press) to produce uniform, high-density blocks, followed by proper curing techniques to maximize compressive strength.
2. Arch Construction Techniques (Segmental & Semicircular)
Formwork & Centering: Setting up accurate wooden or metal shuttering frameworks to support masonry during construction.
Segmental Arches: Laying CSEB along a flatter curve (a segment of a circle), focusing on precise mortar joints and keystone placement to handle lateral thrust.
Semicircular Arches: Constructing full 180° arches, mastering the distribution of compressive forces down through the voussoirs directly into the jambs/piers.
Keystone Placement: Securing the center top block to lock the arch structure, allowing the transfer of load purely in compression before removing the formwork.
Core Principle: Earth masonry arches rely entirely on compressive strength—converting vertical downward weight into outward thrust, eliminating the need for steel reinforcement in lintels.
