Experimental Investigation on Thermomechanical Properties of Bio-Composites Reinforced With Two Lengths of the Date Palm Fibers

Abstract

In recent decades, scientists have started to search for more sustainable and environmentally friendly materials. It is known that building materials are among the most used materials and have a visible negative effect on the environment. The development of environmentally friendly composites in buildings offers different solutions to decrease energy consumption. The aim of the present study is to investigate a new biocomposite material fabricated with natural date palm fibers (DPFs), cement, and sand. The main objective is to assess the thermal insulation characteristics as well as the water absorption and mechanical performance of this material for building industry. The percentage by weight of DPF in the studied specimens ranged from 0% to 30% for two fiber sizes. The characteristics of these specimens were determined experimentally in terms of flexural and compression strength as well as thermal conductivity. The results confirmed that the thermal conductivity decreases with the addition of DPF. Also, the compressive strength of the composite decreases with the weight reduction. Thus, DPF has a positive effect on the thermo-mechanical properties of the considered material. Consequently, it considerably improves the mortar insulating capacity.

Keywords

• date palm
• fibers
• thermal insulation
• mortar
• thermo-mechanical properties
• biocomposite