According to the Japanese Straw Bale House Association, the first straw bale home in Japan was completed in 2001 in Tochigi-Prefecture. The primary concern of straw bale construction in Japan is moisture and straw's susceptibility to decay. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the potential for straw decomposition in straw bale walls in Japan. Firstly, through reviewing the literature, the influence of moisture content and relative humidity on straw decay is investigated. After identifying the parameters of straw decay, moisture content and relative humidity guidelines are chosen. Secondly, the monitoring of the interstitial hydrothermal environment of the straw bale walls of four structures in Japan is discussed. Thirdly, the actual interstitial condition of straw bale walls is evaluated given the relative humidity guideline chosen. Given available data and the variables of each structure and location, a definite conclusion cannot be made, but it can be stated that, with correct detailing, severe straw decay can be avoided in straw bale walls in Japan.
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