Experimental Performance Assessment of Compressed Stabilized Earth Block Walls In the Hot-Humid Climate of Chennai

Abstract

The thermal performance of building envelopes plays a crucial role in achieving energy efficiency and thermal comfort, especially in hot and humid climates such as that of Chennai, India. This study investigates the thermal behavior of Compressed Stabilized Earth Block (CSEB) walls as a sustainable alternative to conventional masonry in residential construction. CSEB, being a low-energy and locally available material, offers significant potential for passive thermal regulation due to its favorable thermal mass and low thermal conductivity. The research assesses the impact of wall thickness, material properties, and solar exposure on indoor temperature regulation through both experimental monitoring and simulation-based analysis using [insert software, e.g., EnergyPlus or DesignBuilder]. Results indicate that CSEB walls provide a time lag of 6–10 hours and reduce indoor heat gain by up to 4°C compared to burnt clay brick walls. The study concludes that CSEB walls can significantly improve indoor thermal comfort while reducing dependence on mechanical cooling systems. These findings support the use of CSEB as a viable, eco-friendly walling solution for sustainable building design in tropical regions like Chennai.