Sustainable solutions for low-cost building: Material innovations for Assam-type house in North-East India

Article

Barbhuiya, S., Adak, D., Marthong, C. and Forth, J. 2025. Sustainable solutions for low-cost building: Material innovations for Assam-type house in North-East India. Case Studies in Construction Materials. 22 (Art. e04461). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cscm.2025.e04461
AuthorsBarbhuiya, S., Adak, D., Marthong, C. and Forth, J.
Abstract

Assam-type houses, traditionally constructed using bamboo, timber, and mud, have long served as climate-adapted, affordable Building in North-East India. With growing demands for low-cost and sustainable Building, this review evaluates material innovations that can enhance the affordability, durability, and sustainability of Assam-type houses. The paper examines traditional materials such as bamboo and thatch, alongside modern innovations like Compressed Stabilized Earth Blocks (CSEB), fly ash bricks, and agro-waste products. Emerging materials, including ferrocement and hempcrete, are assessed for their potential in providing eco-friendly alternatives. Key challenges in the region, such as economic constraints, environmental threats like floods and earthquakes, and material transportation issues, are addressed. Technological advancements, such as prefabricated Building and 3D printing, are discussed for their role in sustainable construction. The review concludes with a focus on policy support, particularly the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY), and future directions for scaling sustainable, low-cost Building solutions in the region.

JournalCase Studies in Construction Materials
Journal citation22 (Art. e04461)
Year2025
PublisherElsevier
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Digital Object Identifier (DOI)https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cscm.2025.e04461
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Online28 Feb 2025
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Submitted03 Dec 2024
Accepted27 Feb 2025
Deposited13 Mar 2025
Copyright holder© 2025 The Authors
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