This study explores the effects of different lengths and doses of raw and treated sisal fibers on the properties of cement composite materials.
The research investigates how treating sisal fibers with calcined bentonite slurry affects the physical and mechanical properties of cement composites.
The study was conducted by Tsion A.F, Yusufu A.CH.J, Thomas K., Nima Rahbar, Young-Deuk K., Min-Gyu H., and Jieun L. from various institutions.
Published on [publication date], the research was based on experiments conducted at various locations including but not limited to Sisalana (T) Co. LTD, Korogwe, Tanzania.
The study aims to improve sustainability and durability of cement composites by using natural sisal fibers, which are typically moisture-sensitive and susceptible to degradation.
The study utilized varied lengths and doses of both raw and treated sisal fibers, evaluating their effects on the compressive and flexural strength, and durability of the mixtures.
Calcined bentonite treated sisal fibers were found to significantly improve the strength and durability of cement composites compared to untreated fibers.
"The treatment of sisal fiber with bentonite slurry improved the roughness of the fiber, reduced fresh bulk density, improved resistance to acid, salt, and alkaline conditions, and increased compressive and flexural strength," stated the authors of the article.
"The use of treated sisal fibers improved strength resistance in 5% HCl compared to the respective dose and length of the raw sisal fiber employed mortar," added the authors.
Notably, "the employment of TS1L10 improved compressive strength by 30.62% and 1.8% at 28 and 56 days, respectively," underscoring the marked advantages of fiber treatment.
Beginning with the increasing importance of sustainable construction materials, the introduction highlights how sisal fibers can potentially improve cement composite properties, paving the way for the integration of innovative materials.
While traditional synthetic fibers pose environmental concerns, the benefits of using sisal fibers become apparent, contributing to more sustainable construction practices.
The treatment of sisal fibers with calcined bentonite has emerged as a key method enabling improved performance of the cement composites across different experiments.
Overall, the findings show key results about the enhancements with treated fibers, including improvements observed with compressive strength and enhanced durability under challenging environmental conditions.
To conclude, the study emphasizes the significant findings and their contributions to future construction practices, presenting the potential for the wider utilization of treated sisal fibers, advocating for more sustainable construction methodologies.