What are CSEB bricks? What are its advantages and disadvantages?

As we strive to build more environmentally friendly and sustainable structures, we are discovering new materials to help us achieve this goal. One such material is CSEB bricks, made of soil compressed under high pressure. These bricks are produced locally, meaning they require less energy to transport and have a low carbon footprint. They are a great alternative to traditional bricks because they are better for the environment. 

See also: A complete guide to the type of bricks available for construction

 

What are CSEB bricks? 

Compressed Stabilised Earth Blocks (CSEBs) are a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to conventional bricks in construction. These blocks are made by compressing a mixture of soil, sand, and stabilisers like cement or lime. CSEBs are renowned for their excellent thermal insulation, durability, and sustainability.

One of the primary advantages of using CSEBs in construction is their cost-effectiveness, as they can be produced on-site using locally available materials. Moreover, CSEBs have exceptional thermal insulation properties, which can significantly reduce the need for additional heating or cooling systems.

In addition to these benefits, buildings constructed with CSEBs have a much lower carbon footprint when compared to those made with conventional clay bricks. Typically, CSEB bricks generate only 22 kg of carbon dioxide per ton, while conventional clay bricks emit 200 kg per ton. The use of CSEBs in construction can, therefore, contribute significantly to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

 

What are the advantages of CSEB bricks? 

Sustainable 

CSEBs are bricks that are better for the environment than regular bricks. They are made from soil found nearby, which means they don’t need to be transported far, so they don’t cause as much pollution. They also don’t need as much energy to be made as regular bricks. So, they are a good choice for building things in a way that takes care of the earth.

Cost-effective

Using Compressed Stabilized Earth Blocks (CSEBs) can help save a lot of money in construction. CSEBs are made from easily available soil, which makes it very cheap. Moreover, CSEBs need less plaster and cement, which means even more savings! Because of this, CSEBs are a great choice for building low-cost houses.

Thermal insulation

CSEBs are bricks that are great at keeping the inside of a building cool in hot weather and warm in cold weather. This means less need for air conditioning or heating, which can save energy and money on electricity bills.

Durable 

CSEBs possess remarkable compressive strength, which ensures the durability and longevity of the structures made with them. They are highly resistant to seismic forces and have excellent fire resistance, making them a dependable option for constructing buildings that can withstand earthquakes and fires.

Versatile

CSEBs can be easily moulded into various shapes and sizes, allowing for creative architectural designs. They can also be finished with different textures and colours, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the building.

Local employment and skill development

Manufacturing and constructing CSEBs can provide a favourable environment for local employment and skill development, thereby facilitating economic growth and community empowerment.

 

What are the disadvantages of CSEB bricks?

• Properly identifying dry inorganic subsoil and non-expansive clay is crucial to producing CSEBs.
• Due to their limited structural strength, CSEBs are only suitable for low-rise buildings and cannot be used for wide-span or high-rise structures.
• Poor quality of production equipment and unskilled production teams are major hindrances CSEBs face, leading to low-quality bricks.
• The country lacks awareness and acceptance of CSEBs and people tend to prefer conventional clay bricks over the new-age option.

 

FAQs 

Can CSEB bricks be used to build high-rise structures?

No, CSEB bricks are only suitable for low-rise buildings due to their limited structural strength.

Are CSEB bricks cost-effective?

Yes, CSEB bricks can be produced on-site using locally available materials, making them a cost-effective option for construction.

Are CSEB bricks good for thermal insulation?

Yes, CSEB bricks have excellent thermal insulation properties, which can significantly reduce the need for additional heating or cooling systems.

What is the carbon footprint of CSEB bricks?

CSEB bricks generate only 22 kg of carbon dioxide per ton, while conventional clay bricks emit 200 kg per ton.

Can CSEB bricks be moulded into different shapes and sizes?

CSEB bricks can be easily moulded into various shapes and sizes, allowing for creative architectural designs.

Can the use of CSEB bricks contribute to economic growth?

Yes, the manufacture and construction of CSEBs can provide a favourable environment for local employment and skill development, thereby facilitating economic growth and community empowerment.

How can the quality of CSEB bricks be maintained?

Properly identifying dry inorganic subsoil and non-expansive clay is crucial to producing high-quality CSEBs. The use of good quality production equipment and skilled production teams can also help maintain the quality of CSEBs.

Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com