Abstract
In this study we investigated the properties of compressed earth bricks (CEBs) with a cement-to-soil ratio of 1:5 by weight and incorporating 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% Pomacea canaliculata shell waste as a replacement for the cement. These materials were tested in interlocking double-walled structures.The best mechanical performance was obtained at the 25% cement replacement level and showed a compressive strength of 104.90 kN, which is greater than the Thai Industrial Standard (TIS 602/2547) for non-load-bearing bricks. The peak density was 2434.5 kg/m3 and occurred at 50% cement replacement and the water absorption was between 16.05% and 17.43%. Calcium carbonate in the form of aragonite and calcite was confirmed using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF). These two minerals form calcium-silicate-hydrate (C-S-H) gel on reaction with soil silica and alumina, resulting in greater strength.A double-walled system constructed from 64 bricks was confirmed as structurally stable and with efficient stress distribution (maximum stress = 83.91 MPa) through Finite Element Analysis (FEA) using ANSYS software.The approach we describe supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 11, 12, and 13) by reducing the demand for cement and the CO2 emissions from its production. It also supports these SDGs by valorising what would otherwise be only agricultural waste, and directly addresses the problems associated with invasive species. To conclude, the approach we put forward provides a feasible method for utilising local agricultural waste to produce a product that has structural reliability is environmentally sustainable.