Feasibility study of incorporation of bamboo plant fibers in cement matrices

Abstract

This article describes the study and development of ecological composites of bamboo (Bambusoideae) and cementitious matrix for possible applications in the construction industries. Previously, the bamboo fibers were prepared in two different granulometries (fine and thick), treated and separated into three different categories: in natura, biomass treatment at 90ºC and biomass treatment in 1% NaOH solution. Evidence of changes in the structure of the plant fiber as a function of the chemical treatment of biomass were observed both in the analysis of chemical compositions and in the spectra obtained in the infrared region. It was observed that these structural changes have a direct effect on the mechanical strength of the composites produced. Another determining factor in the improvement of mechanical performance is the curing process of the composites produced, in this case, immersion in water for 7 days presented results superior to curing only by sprinkling for the same period of time. The mechanical resistance of the specimens was analyzed according to the simple compressive strength in accordance with the methodology established by the Brazilian normative from ABNT NBR 15310:2005 for ceramic tiles. The XRD analyses indicated that the addition of bamboo vegetable fibers did not inhibit the hydration reaction in the CCBA-1-GA composite, ensuring mechanical strength, and the photomicrographs obtained from the composite showed a uniform and compact structure, without large irregularities, fractures, or pores. This structure uniformity, good hydration of the cement, associated with mechanical performance superior to that established by the ABNT NBR 15310:2005 regulation for ceramic tiles, suggests that the composites studied here are good candidates for the development of ceramic devices for different purposes in civil construction.

Keywords

• Sustainability
• Composites
• Cement, bamboo fibers, construction