ABSTRACT
The addition of fibres (steel or synthetic) to concrete mixes is a well-established practice all over the world. It is well understood that the presence of fibres increases the post-cracking performance of concrete by controlling crack opening and improving load distribution. Natural fibres have been used in traditional (not cement-stabilised) rammed earth construction for a long time. Their function is however still not clear. There are two key arguments: i) that natural fibres help to control the opening of cracks; ii) that natural fibres help to create channels on the surface of rammed earth walls along which rain water flows. In this way, the erosion is localised and it is easier to repair the wall.
