DEHERC

DEHERC explores an innovative and sustainable alternative to traditional masonry infills in reinforced concrete (RC) buildings by developing and testing hemp‑block masonry panels. Hemp‑based blocks offer significant environmental advantages over conventional hollow clay units, including reduced embodied energy, lower carbon footprint, and improved thermal performance. The project aims to assess whether these ecological materials can also deliver reliable structural behavior under seismic loading.

The experimental program consists of quasi‑static cyclic in‑plane tests on single‑story, single‑bay RC frames infilled with hemp‑block masonry. The lateral response of these systems—strength, stiffness, deformation capacity, and energy dissipation—is evaluated and compared to that of traditional infill solutions. This direct comparison provides essential insight into the structural viability of hemp blocks as a sustainable alternative for both new construction and future retrofitting strategies.

Social Impact

The transition toward greener construction materials is essential for reducing the environmental footprint of the built environment. DEHERC contributes to this shift by evaluating a material that is renewable, low‑impact, and compatible with circular‑economy principles. If proven structurally reliable, hemp‑block infills could support the development of healthier, more energy‑efficient, and more sustainable communities, particularly in regions where seismic risk demands careful material selection.

By combining sustainability with seismic performance, DEHERC promotes a future where ecological responsibility and structural safety work hand in hand—helping communities build and retrofit RC buildings in ways that are both resilient and environmentally conscious.

Practical Implications

DEHERC aims to support the adoption of eco‑friendly construction materials in seismic regions by providing engineers with validated structural data for hemp‑block infills. These materials offer enhanced thermal insulation, reduced weight, and improved environmental performance, making them attractive for energy‑efficient building design. By demonstrating their behavior under cyclic lateral loading, the project helps bridge the gap between sustainability goals and structural safety requirements, enabling practitioners to make informed design choices.