Physical and mechanical properties of cement-based mortars reinforced with treated date palm fibres

Abstract

In recent years, there has been growing interest among researchers in utilizing natural fibers as reinforcements in construction materials. This study aims to examine the impact of date palm fiber content and the combined treatment on the physical and mechanical properties of cementitious mortars reinforced with fibers. Prismatic specimens of cementitious mortar, measuring 40x40x160 mm and consisting of cement, sand, water, and fiber, were prepared with a water-cement ratio of 0.5 (W/C = 0.5). The fibers were incorporated into the cement at various mass percentages relative to the binder: 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5%, both in their raw form and after undergoing treatments (heating at 80C + 0.5% NaOH and heating at 80C + 1% NaOH). The results indicate that the compressive strength decreases as the fiber content increases. Notably, the combination of heat treatment followed by an alkaline solution of 1% NaOH demonstrates a significant positive effect on the performance of the mortar.