Wooden reinforcement for earth constructions in Albacete, Spain

Abstract

We are studying the reeled brace, a traditional bracing system for rammed earth wall structure typical of Albacete, Spain: its history, composition, construction and structural behaviour. Its advantages and disadvantages are to be analysed and compared with earth walls without bracings as a solution to the weaknesses of earth structures. We have been able to show the increased global resistance of the building against horizontal pressures (wind and seismic activity) and the collapsing load which this system brings, therefore improving the behaviour of earth walled constructions – a topic which has not been studied until now. The objective is to preserve our cultural heritage and to incorporate this into not only refurbishments but also new builds.