Development and characterization of a clay-based composite reinforced with doum fibers

Abstract

This paper investigates the effects of Doum fiber as a local materials, on the mechanical strength properties of cylindrical earth samples with a diameter of 3 cm and a height of 4.5 cm. Untreated and Alkali treated Doum fiber with a NaOH concentration of 1%, 4%, 6% are introduced in local clay with a ratio of 0.5%, 1% and 1.5% by weight of the earth samples. A tensile test of the Doum fiber and a compressive strength test of the elaborated specimens is conducted. The study findings outline an improvement in the mechanical properties of the earth samples and adherence between surface fiber and soil when the fiber is treated. And a dosage of 0.5% by weight of Alkali treated Doum fiber with a NaOH concentration of 1% is sufficient to achieve higher mechanical performances. Modifying the fiber surface through NaOH treatment enhances fiber adhesion to clay and improves the mechanical behavior of the biocomposite.