Identification of Key Factors Governing Compressive Strength in Cement-Stabilized Rammed Earth: A Controlled Assessment of Soil Powdering Prior to Mixing

This study evaluated the influence of soil preparation method and initial moisture content on the compressive strength of cement-stabilized rammed earth (CSRE). Cube samples stabilized with 7-12% cement were compacted using a manual rammer, cured for up to 28 days, and tested according to adapted EN 12390-3 procedures. These results indicated that eliminating the powdering step improved laboratory efficiency and produced specimens more representative of field practice. These findings demonstrate that labor-intensive powdering of natural soils is unnecessary, provided that moisture is accurately determined, thereby improving both laboratory efficiency and consistency with field practice. The outcomes contribute to optimizing laboratory methodologies for earthen construction materials.