Back to Earth - literally.
Clay is one of the oldest building materials around – healthy, local, and abundant. But to make it viable for today’s construction needs, we’ve added a little science.
Our mineral-based activators transform clay-rich excavation material into castable and water-resistant building materials. These activators are based on non-toxic mineral powders that act as dispersant and coagulant. The dispersant helps reorganise the clay particles for better flow and processability, while the coagulant supports the agglomeration of fine particles – giving the material stability and strength.
Whether it’s for poured earth or compressed earth blocks, the goal is the same: making clay construction faster, less labour intensive, and scalable – while keeping things circular and low-carbon.
Cement-free – no need for Portland cement or any other binder
Up to 70% CO₂ reduction
Circular economy ready – up to 99% reused excavation material per m3 of poured earth
No firing – big energy savings
Healthy indoor climate – thanks to clay’s natural humidity regulation
Uses existing concrete production infrastructure
Poured earth and compressed earth blocks based on Oxara’s technology can be used for:
structural & non-structural indoor walls
Screeds
Terrazzo flooring
Composite applications with wood
© Susana Valadas 
© Tim Kurz We don’t just develop the technology – we make sure it’s being used. Our clay-based building materials are already out there, thanks to collaborations with manufacturers who know their craft. From poured earth to compressed earth blocks – these solutions combine local materials with low emissions and real-world durability.
The result? Sustainable, regionally sourced construction materials are no longer an experiment – they’re on the market and ready to build with.
Activator for cement-free, stabilised poured earth from excavation material. Suitable for interior poured earth applications such as walls, floors, screeds, terrazzo, and furniture.
Activator for cement-free non-stabilised poured earth using excavation material. Ideal for interior non-load-bearing, poured earth components including screeds and composite applications with wood.
Activator for cement-free compressed earth blocks from excavation material. Suitable for modular construction, particularly in masonry applications.
DownloadsOxara’s products have great potential – in Switzerland and internationally. They address exactly where we at ERNE see the greatest leverage for CO₂ reduction: as an alternative to cement-based construction. We’re especially interested in clay as a substitute for concrete.
We work with two main types of clay-rich sources:
In both cases, we only use clean, tested clay sources. A clay is considered suitable when it contains enough fine particles to ensure cohesion and strength, but not too much "fat clay," which would require excessive water in the mix.
Clay properties vary greatly, so we first need to test a sample to determine its suitability for use with our products. Please contact us — our team will guide you through the process and recommend the next steps.
We support partners in developing clay-based building materials. First, we’ll test your clay source to check compatibility with our products. Then, our team can advise on formulation, assess your production setup, and support you throughout the development process. Get in touch to start the conversation.
Here are some of our favourite projects - pushing boundaries, rethinking materials, and proving that sustainable construction can be smart, practical, and impactful.
You want to go back to Earth?
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