Thermomechanical and Physical Properties of Plaster Concrete Reinforced with Natural Fibers

The main objective of this experimental study is to valorize local materials in order to use them as composite Materials (CM) for construction. In this study case, the CM is composed of fibers of Luffa sponge embedded in plaster. Although material resources are abundant in Tunisian territories, their use is very limited. Plaster, the by-product of heat treatment of gypsum, is used in building as coatings and decorative elements. Despite its satisfactory isolation, it has a weakness in its mechanical strength. In this research study, we focus on the enhancement of the thermo-mechanical properties of plaster by adding Luffa sponge fibers into its Matrix. The experimental studies rely on varying the mass fractions of Luffa sponge fibers chemically treated by an alkaline solution (NaOH) in the plaster matrix and then testing thermo-mechanical and physical properties. The results showed that an adequate optimum compromise linking all properties (mechanical, thermal, and chemical) is reached by CM made up of 1% Luffa sponge fibers for the following condition of chemical treatment of 1% NaOH at a temperature of 50°C for 90 min.