Rammed Earth Techniques in China and the Mediterranean Area: A Comparative Analysis.

Rammed earth techniques have a long history and are widely used in the Mediterranean and China. These traditional techniques developed independently in the two regions, producing differences and similarities. Tools and materials as two essential aspects are compared in this paper. For ease of movement and secure fixing, formworks comprise forms, end-stops, and retaining devices. The latter determines how the formwork is used. The formwork size represents the main difference and influences various aspects. Although the choice of the earth for construction is similar, the different local soil components and materials constitute essential differences in reinforcing rammed earth in the two areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]