ASTM E2392/E2392M-10 (R2016) PDF Download

The ASTM E2392/E2392M-10 (R2016) standard provides guidance for the design and construction of earthen building systems. These systems, which include adobe, rammed earth, cob, cast earth, and other earthen technologies, have been used for thousands of years but have fallen out of favor in some parts of the world with the development of new building materials. However, there is now a revival of interest in earthen construction due to its potential sustainability benefits.

The standard acknowledges the historical use of earthen building systems and the need for rational structural design methods. It references various earthen building codes, guidelines, and standards from around the world, drawing from their research and field observations on seismic, thermal, and moisture durability performance. The standard aims to provide guidance to engineers, building officials, and regulatory agencies in the design and construction of earthen structures.

The standard has two primary audiences: areas with historical or indigenous earthen building traditions and areas with a nascent or reviving interest in earthen architecture. In the former, the guide sets a framework for increasing life safety and building durability, while in the latter it provides a framework for codification and engineering design.

In terms of technical requirements, the standard addresses both the structural and non-structural aspects of earthen building systems. It also considers sustainable development by discussing materials, manufacturing processes, operational performance, and indoor environmental quality. However, the standard does not apply to materials and products used in architectural cast stone.