In the heart of Algeria, researchers are unlocking the potential of plant waste, transforming it into a powerful tool for the construction industry. Gouasmia Naoui, a researcher from Annaba University, has been leading a study that could revolutionize the way we build, making structures more flexible and durable while reducing environmental impact.
The study, published in the Proceedings on Engineering Sciences (Proceedings on Engineering Sciences), focuses on the improvement of mechanical properties of cementitious bio-composites reinforced with green bio-fibers. Naoui and her team have been exploring the use of Alfa and Diss plants, abundant and renewable resources in the region, to enhance the performance of cementitious materials.
Cementitious materials, known for their mechanical resistance and durability, have long dominated the construction market. However, their limited deformation capacity and low tensile strength make them susceptible to shrinkage cracks, a common issue in large surface elements like pavements and roads. Naoui’s research aims to address this challenge by improving the deformation capacity of these materials.
The key to this innovation lies in the use of natural fibers. “Vegetable fibers contain a high percentage of sugars which interact unfavorably with the cement paste,” explains Naoui. To overcome this, the team applied hydrothermal treatments (boiling for four hours in mains water) and chemical treatments (immersion in seawater) to the Alfa and Diss fibers. The results were remarkable. The ductility of the biofiber-reinforced cementitious composites increased more than tenfold compared to pure cement. The deformation rate exceeded 29% for fiber-reinforced composites immersed in seawater, and over 40% for boiled fiber-reinforced composites, while pure cement exhibited brittle behavior with a deformation rate of less than 3%.
The tests also revealed that seawater treatment proved more effective, enabling the highest flexural strengths to be obtained. This finding could have significant implications for the construction industry, particularly in coastal regions where seawater is readily available.
The commercial impacts of this research are substantial. By valorizing plant waste, the study offers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution to enhance the performance of construction materials. This could lead to the development of more durable and flexible structures, reducing maintenance costs and extending the lifespan of buildings and infrastructure.
Moreover, the use of renewable and biodegradable materials aligns with the growing demand for sustainable construction practices. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change, innovations like this could play a crucial role in reducing the environmental footprint of the construction industry.
Naoui’s research is a testament to the power of innovation and the potential of waste materials. As she puts it, “The results of the tests carried out on the bio-fibrous cementitious composites showed that their mechanical characteristics are improved and that the seawater treatment is more efficiency, as it provides the greatest flexural strength.”
The study opens up new avenues for future developments in the field. It paves the way for further research into the use of different types of plant fibers and treatments to enhance the properties of construction materials. As the world continues to seek sustainable and innovative solutions, Naoui’s work serves as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change.