Rammed earth structures with historical, applied, and structural perspectives: İntegration of traditional and modern techniques

Today, the increasing importance of energy consumption, environmental impact, and sustainability brings the pursuit of energy-based and sustainable solutions in the construction industry to the forefront. When considered from a historical and cultural perspective, compressed earth building techniques can be an alternative to meet these needs. Compressed earth buildings, an ancient technique, is used in both developed and developing countries to meet modern requirements. It is particularly seen as a valuable alternative in terms of sustainability and is heavily used in seismically active regions. Although it is impossible to determine a point of origin for the technique of compacting earth between molds throughout history, examples have been encountered in many regions. Examples from different regions and different time periods of the world that have survived to the present day reveal that this construction technique is a technique that can easily adapt to changing conditions. The technique of building compressed earth, which appears to be a simple application at first glance, is actually a complex process that requires a delicate and careful approach. It requires detailed and careful processing at every stage, from design to post-implementation processes. Today, the destructive effects of earthquakes are still a significant reality, and earth buildings are usually the most vulnerable type of structure to such natural disasters. This situation requires further research on earth buildings and the development of strategies to increase the earthquake resistance of these buildings. A large part of the world's population still lives in earth buildings. Therefore, more comprehensive, and detailed research is needed to learn more iv about the durability and sustainability of earth buildings and to make these structures safer and more habitable. The aim of this thesis is to analyze the applicability of these techniques in modern construction industry and their usability in seismic regions, energy consumption, and sustainability by examining the techniques of compressed earth buildings from a historical and cultural perspective. While critically reviewing the existing literature, the study aims to determine the characteristics of compressed earth buildings by analyzing the data obtained from various tests and experiments. In addition, detailed case studies will be conducted considering seismic provisions. This information will be supported by drawings to increase comprehensibility, aiming to initiate a discussion on the advantages and disadvantages of compressed earth buildings and to encourage wider use of this structure in the industry. This study progresses in a detailed manner through a series of sections while examining the subject. The Conclusion section of the study, based on the data and findings obtained in the general framework, emphasizes that compressed earth building techniques can be a suitable and sustainable alternative for use in seismic regions when combined with hybrid techniques and taking into account other influential factors, depending on the correct design principles, application methodologies, and process management. This is necessary to encourage and develop wider and more effective use in the construction industry.