Abstract
Composites made of bio-aggregate particles and lime based binder can be used as a low embodied energy alternative to traditional walling systems and can provide several performance advantages. As the ratio and nature of constituents used in bio-aggregate composites will have bearing on the properties, it is necessary for these to be capable of being optimised to meet specific design requirements. In addition, as these materials are known to be anisotropic, it is required that any impact of constituents is assessed with respect to orientation. In this paper, the influence of the binder to aggregate ratio and aggregate particle size distribution on the compressive strength, flexural strength and thermal conductivity of hemp-lime composites in two directions of loading have been assessed. A newly developed image analysis method was also employed to study the topology of the internal structure. The results show that the material is anisotropic in both behaviour and internal structure and that both binder/aggregate ratio and aggregate particle size distribution affect composite properties. In the case of binder to aggregate ratio, the impact is shown to be directionally dependent and indicative of differing governing factors controlling the failure mode in opposing loading directions.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
