BLOQUES DE TIERRA COMPRIMIDA CON CÁÑAMO DE CANNABIS: INNOVACIÓN EN CONSTRUCCIÓN SOSTENIBLE

Abstract

This study proposes that compressed earth blocks (CEB) with cannabis hemp fibers be applied as a sustainable alternative instead of traditional construction materials. The research arises from the need to reduce the enormous environmental impact generated by the industry, which uses many resources and produces a high volume of CO₂. Hemp, a variety of plants that has no psychoactive effects, is characterized by its mechanical and thermal properties, as well as its ability to absorb carbon. For these reasons, it is a renewable input with minimal environmental impact. The method employed soil characterization through laboratory tests, the creation of mixtures with different doses of cement and hemp, the production of CEB prototypes, and the analysis of their compressive strength at two weeks and one month. The findings indicate that the performance and lightness of the blocks improve with the incorporation of hemp, achieving strengths of up to 3,37 MPa, which meet international technical regulations for non-structural uses and low-rise construction. The analysis concludes that, from an environmental and technical standpoint, the use of hemp in CEB is feasible. This contributes to innovation in sustainable construction by reducing the consumption of conventional resources and fostering a transition toward more efficient and environmentally friendly buildings.