This comprehensive literature review investigates the impact of stabilization and reinforcement techniques on the mechanical, hygrothermal properties, and durability of adobe and compressed earth blocks (CEBs). Recent advancements in understanding these properties have spurred a burgeoning body of research, prompting a meticulous analysis of 70 journal articles and conference proceedings. The selection criteria focused on key parameters including construction method (block type), incorporation of natural fibers or powders, partial or complete cement replacement, pressing techniques, and block preparation methods (adobe or CEB). The findings unearth several significant trends. Foremost, there is a prevailing interest in utilizing waste materials, such as plant matter, construction and demolition waste, and mining by-products, to fortify or stabilize earth blocks. Additionally, the incorporation of natural fibers manifests in a discernible reduction in crack size attributable to shrinkage, accompanied by enhancements in durability, mechanical strength, and thermal resistance. Moreover, this review underscores the imperative of methodological coherence among researchers to facilitate scalable and transposable results. Challenges emerge from the variability in base soil granulometry and disparate research standards, necessitating concerted efforts to harness findings effectively. Furthermore, this review illuminates a gap in complete lifecycle analyses of earthen structures, underscoring the critical necessity for further research to address this shortfall. It emphasizes the urgent need for deeper exploration of properties and sustainability indicators, recognizing the inherent potential and enduring relevance of earthen materials in fostering sustainable development. This synthesis significantly contributes to the advancement of knowledge in the field and underscores the continued importance of earth-based construction methodologies in contemporary sustainable practices.

This article investigates the hygrothermal properties of earth-based materials by analyzing experimental data from 88 articles spanning 32 countries worldwide. The focus is determining effective techniques for leveraging the use of excavated soil in construction, particularly emphasizing enhancement of hygrothermal comfort in specific climates. Based on statistical analysis, the study presents a comprehensive classification of earth production techniques, incorporating additives, and examines their impacts on hygrothermal properties of excavated soils. Additionally, it explores the intricate relationship between the climatic conditions of a region and the chosen earth-material production techniques. The analysis aims to propose standard parameters for earthen materials and identify gaps in both methods and experimental studies. Therefore, this study will provide valuable insights by proposing new design tools (ternary diagrams) to maximize the use of excavated soils in construction practices. The proposed diagrams illustrate the intricate relation linking either hygrothermal properties, the climate zone, and manufacturing techniques, or the relation between the most studied manufacturing techniques (compaction, fibered, and stabilization) and expected dry thermal conductivity. Thereby, results from this meta-analysis and critical review will contribute to advancing sustainable construction practices.