We have started testing block production using the Hydraform M7 Compressed Earth Block Machine. Since we don’t really have “dirt” here, (only dirty rocks), we have decided to follow the lead of my friend Brandon Gore. He used crushed limestone fines as a substitue for dirt. So we have settled on a mix of limestone fines, white portland cement, hydrated lime, and water as the components of the block material. After some experimentation with the ratios, we have a formula to move forward. Here is a picture of the finished test blocks.
The recommended construction method suggests to securely mortar the first course of bricks to the foundation, and dry stack the remaining courses.
