Hampakalk i bärande konstruktioner : en analys av tryckhållfasthet

The construction sector faces significant challenges in reducing climate impact and transitioning to more sustainable materials. Hempcrete, a bio-based building material, has gained attention due to its environmental advantages, such as low carbon footprint, good insulation, and effective moisture regulation. However, its load-bearing properties are not yet sufficiently studied. This study aimed to evaluate the compressive strength of hempcrete and its potential contribution to the load-bearing capacity of external walls. The focus was on vertical loads; lateral forces and economic aspects were not addressed. The research included literature review and compression tests on three different hempcrete mixes from separate manufacturers. These were tested according to SS-EN 12390-3 and SS-EN 12390-7, standards typically used for concrete and lightweight concrete, to allow comparison of mechanical performance and density. Results indicate that hempcrete is not a fully load-bearing material in the conventional sense, but it does exhibit some compressive strength. Among the three tested products, the mix from Senini demonstrated the highest strength. While overall strength was low, hempcrete shows potential when used in combination with other structural systems. In summary, hempcrete offers promising qualities as a complementary material in external walls, particularly due to its environmental benefits, insulation, and moisturehandling capabilities.