Exploring the impact of jute fibre reinforcement on the mechanical properties of compressed earth composites

Jack Andrew Cottrell*, Muhammad Ali, Alireza Tatari, Brett Martinson, Colin Lupton

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

The use of natural fibres has proven successful in improving the mechanical properties of earthen construction. It is a low-cost and environmentally friendly alternative to using chemical stabilisers, such as Portland Cement.

This paper presents an experimental investigation into the influence of jute fibre reinforcement on the compressive and tensile splitting strength of Jute Reinforced Compressed Earth Composites (JRCECs). The investigation considered three fibre lengths (10 mm, 20 mm and 30 mm) and three fibre dosages (0.125%, 0.25% and 0.50%) by weight. When compared to an unreinforced control mix, it was found that the incorporation of jute fibre increased the mechanical properties of the JRCEC, with the optimum mix providing an increase in compressive and tensile splitting strength of 100% and 85% respectively.

Within the investigation, Computed Tomography (CT) scans were performed on the JRCEC samples to evaluate the influence of mixing methodology on the fibre distribution and orientation. Findings from this study showed that jute fibre reinforcement may be used to increase the mechanical properties of compressed earth composites, and highlights the importance of mixing methodology during the manufacturing process.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationSecond RILEM International Conference on Earthen Construction
Subtitle of host publicationICEC 2024
EditorsChristopher Beckett, Ana Bras, Antonin Fabbri, Emmanuel Keita, Céline Perlot, Arnaud Perrot
PublisherSpringer Nature
Pages495–503
ISBN (Electronic)9783031626906
ISBN (Print)9783031626890, 9783031626920
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 27 Jun 2024
EventSecond International RILEM Conference on Earthen Construction: ICEC 2024 - Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Duration: 8 Jul 202410 Jul 2024

Publication series

NameRILEM Bookseries
PublisherSpringer Nature
Volume52
ISSN (Print)2211-0844
ISSN (Electronic)2211-0852

Conference

ConferenceSecond International RILEM Conference on Earthen Construction
Country/TerritoryUnited Kingdom
CityEdinburgh
Period8/07/2410/07/24

Keywords

  • Jute Fibre Reinforced Compressed Earth Composites
  • Compressive Strength
  • Tensile Splitting Strength
  • Fibre Distribution and Orientation

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Exploring the impact of jute fibre reinforcement on the mechanical properties of compressed earth composites'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this