Earthen buildings, as some of the oldest human-made structures in the world, once constituted the primary form of human shelter and continue to be used in certain regions today. Adobe, as one of the oldest construction materials in the traditional architecture of Iran and many other countries, has always been vulnerable to environmental factors such as moisture, rainfall, temperature fluctuations, and weathering. This vulnerability, particularly in historic adobe structures, leads to gradual deterioration and reduced structural durability.
In this context, the necessity of conserving these earthen complexes—many of which have already suffered structural damage due to natural and human-induced factors—becomes evident. Accordingly, the present study aims to introduce and evaluate traditional and modern strategies employed to enhance the resistance of adobe against environmental damaging agents, especially moisture. The research adopts a descriptive–analytical methodology, with data collected through documentary (library-based) studies.
This study seeks to answer the following question: what traditional and modern solutions have been employed to improve the resistance of adobe against environmental factors? The findings indicate that although traditional methods remain significant due to their climatic compatibility, accessibility, and low cost, their effectiveness under harsh climatic conditions is limited. In contrast, modern technologies have been able to substantially increase the durability of adobe; however, high costs and limited compatibility with historic fabric constitute their main challenges.
Ultimately, the research emphasizes the integration of traditional and modern approaches. The results show that traditional methods such as adding straw and applying mud–straw plaster, despite being simple, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly, offer limited resistance to moisture and severe conditions. Conversely, modern solutions based on chemical and nanomaterials provide greater mechanical strength and stability. Therefore, the most effective approach is a combination of these two categories of methods in order to achieve both durability and architectural authenticity