The use of straw bales in construction projects is still regarded by many as a novel technique with significant perceived risks. Barriers such as finance, certification and insurance all contribute to further restricting wider adoption. In all of the above cases, long-term durability can be considered a prevalent concern. In particular, construction industry concerns regarding long-term durability remain a notable barrier to mainstream adoption. Demonstrating the long-term durability credentials of straw bale construction can hence be considered one of the most significant ways of broadening the use of straw bale construction within conventional construction markets. This paper presents a review of methodologies for condition monitoring, analysis, and interpretation of results for the short and longer-term assessment of straw bale buildings.
The review is supported by research completed at the University of Bath and will help to inform and support future studies whilst also providing new insight into assessment criteria currently being developed.
Authors:
- Thomson, Andrew
- Walker, Pete
