Seismic Resilience of Compressed Earth Blocks: Acoustic Characterization in the High Atlas Region

Among these materials, compressed earth blocks (CEBs) can be identified as a traditional construction element with a low ecological footprint, good thermal resistance, and compatibility with regional construction practices. In this regard, in response to the earthquake in Morocco on September 8, 2023, this study focuses on the mechanical characteristics of unstabilized CEBs produced from raw earth materials obtained from a region in Tirknit, a village in Chichaoua-Taroudant in Morocco. Ultrasonic measurements in both x and y directions using a Pundit PL-200 apparatus were conducted on CEBs produced from earth materials similar to those used in regional construction practices. The signals obtained from these measurements were used to determine the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). Subsequently, using the time of flight (TOF) values adopted in this study and the results obtained from these measurements, this study was able to determine the values for Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio, which were 2796.42 MPa and 0.27 respectively.