Effect of incorporating plant-based natural fibres on the mechanical and durability properties of pastes and mortars

Amidst global concerns over depleting natural and energy resources, waste generation, and gas emissions, sustainability has gained significant traction. Utilising renewable resources such as plant fibres, such as RMSE (PhA), offers an environmentally friendly solution for concrete production. This study investigates the impact of incorporating PhA fibres on the mechanical and durability properties of paste and mortar samples. PhA was added to mixes at varying volumes (0-2%) with a water to cement (W/C) ratio of 0.55 and sand to cement (S/C) ratio of 2. The stems were processed into 1 cm × 2 mm fibres and treated with 4% NaOH solution. Tests on paste and mortar samples after seven days included chemical shrinkage (CS), drying shrinkage (DS), autogenous shrinkage (AS), expansion (Exp), compressive strength and flexural strength. Results demonstrate that PhA integration effectively reduces shrinkage in both pastes and mortars and modestly enhances compressive and flexural strength. This eco-friendly approach holds potential to mitigate shrinkage and contribute to sustainable construction practices.