Earth-based construction material field tests characterization in the Alto Douro Wine Region

Field tests for characterizing earth-based materials in tabique buildings, a traditional construction method in the Alto Douro Wine Regionreveal critical insights into their physical and chemical properties. This study marks the first systematic evaluation of such materials in situ, providing a foundation for assessing material suitability for conservation, rehabilitation, or new constructions. The research proposes a series of field tests to guide future normative documents, offering architects and engineers actionable knowledge to preserve this vernacular heritage. By addressing the lack of scientific studies on tabique technology, this work bridges gaps in traditional building practices while ensuring sustainable preservation efforts.

Cardoso, R., Pinto, J., Paiva, A., & Lanzinha, J. C. (2017). Earth-based construction material field tests characterization in the Alto Douro Wine Region. Open Engineering, 7(1), 435–443. https://doi.org/10.1515/eng-2017-0048