ICC-ES AC506

Full Name

ICC-ES AC506 – Acceptance Criteria for Cement Stabilized Earthbags as an Alternative to Adobe Masonry

Scope

ICC-ES AC506 outlines the acceptance criteria for evaluating cement-stabilized earthbags (CSEBs) as a viable alternative to adobe masonry in constructing single-story residential structures under the International Residential Code (IRC). The scope of AC506 includes:
  • Material properties: it specifies the requirements for the materials used in CSEBs, including the soil type, cement content, and the type of bag material. It also addresses the properties of the steel barbed wire used for reinforcement.
  • Construction methods: it details the acceptable construction methods for CSEBs, including bag filling, stacking, and the placement of barbed wire reinforcement.
  • Performance requirements: it outlines the performance criteria that CSEB walls must meet, including structural strength, durability, fire resistance, and thermal performance.
  • Testing procedures: it describes the standardized testing methods for evaluating the properties and performance of CSEBs, including compression tests, shear tests, and fire resistance tests.
  • Evaluation and certification: it outlines the process for evaluating and certifying CSEB systems to ensure they meet the acceptance criteria and can be safely used as an alternative to adobe masonry.
By adhering to ICC-ES AC506, manufacturers and builders can ensure that their CSEB construction methods and materials meet the necessary standards for safety and performance in residential construction.

Resources

Keywords

cement stabilized earthbags; adobe masonry; acceptance criteria; evaluation; material properties; construction methods; performance requirements; testing procedures; soil type; cement content; bag material; steel barbed wire; reinforcement; structural strength; durability; fire resistance; thermal performance