Experimental Study of the Mechanical Characteristics of Evaluated Floor Panels

Raised access floors are widely used in commercial and industrial buildings due to their adaptability, ease of installation, and maintenance. However, conventional materials used on these floors often exhibit poor mechanical performance and pose environmental concerns. This study investigates the strength of raised access floor panels composed of gypsum, cement, and silica fume. The aim is to enhance the physical and mechanical properties while utilizing sustainable, eco-friendly materials. Laboratory tests were conducted to evaluate the density, water absorption, compressive strength, and flexural strength of the composites. Additionally, the structural performance of floor panels was assessed under compression load test. Results revealed that adding 10% cement improved compressive strength by 26.9%, while 5% silica fume increased it further by 15.5% through enhanced compactness. The panels demonstrated potential for use in sustainable raised access flooring systems, providing an eco-friendly alternative to conventional materials