In the heart of Ethiopia, researchers are weaving together natural fibers and industrial byproducts to create a sustainable future for the construction industry. Zerihun Getachew Debena, a faculty member at Arba Minch University’s Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, has been leading a groundbreaking study that could revolutionize how we build, particularly in the energy sector.
Debena and his team have been exploring the potential of sisal fiber-reinforced geopolymer composites (SFRGC) as an alternative to traditional cement-based materials. Their work, published in Materials Research Express, delves into the mechanical and physical characteristics of these composites, with promising results that could significantly impact the energy sector’s construction practices.
Geopolymers, typically made from fly ash and activated by alkalis, are already known for their lower carbon footprint compared to ordinary Portland cement. However, their brittle nature has limited their widespread use. This is where sisal fibers come into play. “We wanted to enhance the mechanical properties of geopolymers by reinforcing them with sisal fibers,” Debena explains. “Sisal is abundant in Ethiopia and many other countries, making it a sustainable and cost-effective choice.”
The team investigated how varying the volume and length of sisal fibers, along with the concentration of alkali activators, affected the composites’ compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, and water absorption. Using a Response Surface Methodology with a Box-Behnken design, they found that the optimal mix for compressive strength was 5% fiber volume, 20 mm fiber length, and 8 M alkali concentration, yielding an impressive 21.5 MPa. For splitting tensile strength, the best result was achieved with 15% fiber volume, 35 mm fiber length, and 12 M alkali concentration, reaching 4.6 MPa. The lowest water absorption, at 5.325%, was obtained with 5% fiber volume, 20 mm fiber length, and 8 M alkali concentration.
These findings could have significant implications for the energy sector. As the world shifts towards renewable energy, the demand for sustainable construction materials is growing. Geopolymer composites reinforced with sisal fibers could be used to build durable, low-carbon structures for solar farms, wind turbine bases, and energy storage facilities. Moreover, the use of sisal fibers could support local economies in regions where the plant is abundant, creating a virtuous cycle of sustainability and economic development.
Debena’s work is not just about creating a new material; it’s about reimagining how we build. “We’re not just looking at the technical aspects,” he says. “We’re also considering the environmental and economic impacts. This is a holistic approach to sustainable construction.”
The research published in Materials Research Express, which translates to “Materials Research Expressions” in English, opens up new avenues for exploration. Future studies could focus on optimizing the production process, scaling up manufacturing, and exploring other natural fibers. As the energy sector continues to evolve, so too will the materials that support it. Debena’s work is a testament to the power of innovation and the potential of sustainable materials to shape our future.
