Speaker
Description
The growing interest in low-cost building materials, thermal comfort, energy efficiency, and the reduction of CO₂ emissions encourages the use of local and renewable resources, particularly compressed earth and agricultural waste. In this context, the present study investigates the valorization of date palm waste for the production of compressed earth bricks specifically intended for the sustainable restoration of traditional kasbahs in the Drâa-Tafilalet region of Morocco. This area is characterized by significant thermal variations between hot summers and harsh winters and is home to an earthen architectural heritage, such as kasbahs, which requires appropriate and eco-friendly rehabilitation solutions. Date palm waste was incorporated into the brick matrix to enhance thermal insulation performance while maintaining adequate mechanical properties in line with compressed earth construction requirements. The results confirm a notable improvement in thermal insulation, accompanied by a slight reduction in compressive strength, which remains within acceptable limits for the restoration of traditional structures. This approach contributes to the preservation of built heritage, the promotion of local resource valorization, and the development of cost-effective and sustainable construction techniques for the rehabilitation of kasbahs in Drâa-Tafilalet.
Keywords: Compressed earth bricks; Date palm waste; Thermal insulation; Compressive strength; Sustainable restoration; Kasbah; Earthen architecture.
