In the heart of Cameroon, where urban areas like Douala and Yaoundé grapple with severe housing shortages, a novel solution is emerging from an unlikely source: termite mounds. Researchers, led by Wannyuy Kingsly Mofor from the Department of Mechanical Engineering, have been exploring the potential of termite mound soil (TMS) composites reinforced with natural fibers, offering a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to conventional construction materials like cement.
The study, published in the Journal of Engineering (known in English as the Journal of Engineering), investigates the mechanical, physical, and thermal properties of TMS composites reinforced with coconut fibers (CFs) and empty fruit bunch spikelet fibers (EFBSF). Unlike previous research that focused on single fiber types, this study explores the simultaneous incorporation of two different fiber types and the influence of various sodium hydroxide (NaOH) treatment concentrations.
The findings are promising. The fibers underwent warm water treatment at 100°C with NaOH at concentrations ranging from 1% to 4%. Composites were prepared with fiber concentrations ranging from 0% to 2.5%. The optimal performance was observed at 2.5% fiber content with 2% NaOH for EFBSF and 3% NaOH for CF. “The NaOH treatment significantly enhanced the mechanical performance and reduced water absorption,” Mofor explains.
The study found that the peak flexural strengths were 1.81 MPa for EFBSF and 1.96 MPa for CF, while compressive strengths reached 2.0 and 1.57 MPa, respectively. The density ranged from 1510 kg/m³ (0% fiber) to 1350 kg/m³ (2.5% fiber, FT4). Thermal analysis demonstrated that incorporating CF and EFBSF into TMS bricks reduced volumetric calorific capacity and thermal conductivity, with reductions of up to 55.61% for CF and 50.99% for EFBSF.
These findings have significant implications for the construction industry, particularly in regions facing housing shortages. The development of low-cost, energy-efficient housing materials could help alleviate the housing crisis and contribute to a more sustainable built environment. “This research provides a novel approach to enhancing TMS-based composites,” Mofor says. “By demonstrating the synergistic effects of two distinct fibers and multiple fiber treatments, we can pave the way for future developments in the field.”
The study’s focus on sustainable and eco-friendly materials aligns with the growing demand for green building solutions. As the construction industry continues to evolve, the integration of natural fibers and innovative treatments could shape the future of masonry applications, offering a viable alternative to traditional materials and reducing the environmental impact of construction. This research not only addresses immediate housing needs but also sets the stage for long-term sustainability in the built environment.