Straw is compressed with low technology tools into bales, with a density of more than 90kg/m³ and acquires special properties as a building material by its compactness and insulating capacity. In the last 4 years, buildings made with straw bale have tripled in Europe, from over 2000 in 2010 to over 6000 today (FASBA 2013). In countries such as Austria and Germany, the use of this material is regulated in technical building codes. Contemporary buildings with straw comply effectively with energy efficiency standards such as Passivhaus.
Authors: Lopez Altuna, Alejandro; Iborra Lucas, Milagro
okambuva, coop.V. bioconstrucción
Departamento de Construcciones Arquitectónicas. Escuela Técnica Superior deIngeniería de Edificación. Universitat Politécnica de Valencia