Challenge 2 · Testes de Material e Otimização de Proporções / Material Testing & Proportion Optimization
Develop your ideal earth-building mix through systematic testing. Find the sweet spot: strength, workability, durability.
Tasks
- Prepare 8 samples with varied ratios: (1) clay-heavy (bad, expected to fail), (2) sand-heavy (weak), (3) optimal from Week 2 data, (4-8) variations (clay±10%, fiber content, different binders). Label each.
- Compression test: test all samples after 14 days drying. Record max load and failure mode. Plot results.
- Shrinkage test: measure & document % change from wet to dry. Note crack patterns.
- Water durability: 24h soak + observation. Score on 1-5 scale (1=crumbles, 5=intact). Correlate to compression results.
- Spreadsheet submission: table with all data, ratios, test results, and a one-page analysis (PT or EN): which mix is best for your climate? Why?
✓ Checkpoint · Entrega · Testes de Material e Otimização de Proporções / Material Testing & Proportion Optimization
Material Optimization Report: test data table, graphs (compression vs. ratio, shrinkage patterns), photos of all samples (before/after testing), and written recommendation for Week 5 build mix.
Stretch Goal
Test 3 different fiber types (straw, jute, paper) and compare strength/workability. Test a local binder (termite mound soil, mycelium-inoculated earth, or lime) and evaluate.
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