Valorization of pinus and cedrus acicular leaves as bio-based fibers for reinforced cementitious composites: Extraction, microstructural characterization and mechanical performance
Abstract
In modern construction applications, various cement-based composite material systems are being developed using forest products and forest waste, such as biobased fibers. These composites serve as sustainable building materials, including wood-cement composites, fiber-reinforced panels, lightweight building elements, and precast building components, especially in non-load-bearing architectural applications. In this study, the physical and mechanical properties of a composite produced in a similar manner, using acicular leaves of Pinus nigra and Cedrus libani as natural fibers, were examined. In this context, the fibers underwent a multi-stage pre-treatment, including hot water extraction, alkaline treatment, and Ca(OH)₂ mineralization, followed by characterization; the treatments were verified by SEM, EDS, and FTIR analyses. Short Cedrus fibers are randomly distributed in the matrix to form an isotropic structure, while long Pinus fibers are oriented perpendicular to the load direction to obtain an orthotropic structure. Unit weight, ultrasonic pulse velocity, dynamic modulus of elasticity, and compressive, flexural, and splitting tensile strengths were determined. When compared, short, isotropic cedar fibers showed higher compressive strength, while long, oriented pine fibers exhibited superior bending and splitting tensile performance.
Keywords
References
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