Abstract
This paper investigated the use of Spanish Broom fibers for cement mortar reinforcement. The characterization of the fibers separated with different separation methods was carried out through FTIR and TG/DTG analysis. The influence of harvesting time, fiber processing method, fiber length and amount of fibers on the mechanical characteristics of cement composite have been studied. Compressive and flexural strengths of cement mortar specimens were determined after 28 days and compared with reference mortar. Five specimens were also tested after 56 days and obtained results are opposed to the results on 28-day old samples. According to the results obtained Spanish Broom fibers are very strong and able to reinforce cement matrix at micro level. Fibers picked in summer will result in better mechanical properties of mortars than fibers picked in fall. Considering the maceration method, it is concluded that fiber maceration with sea water is as effective as chemical treatment with NaOH but cheaper and more environment-friendly.
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