Description
Environmental sustainability is a critical concern in the construction industry due to its substantial energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. This study addresses the sustainability of building materials by exploring the volume stability of cementitious system by adding natural fibers, specifically those derived from the Phragmites Australis (PA) plant. Natural fibers exhibit high strength and stiffness, making them suitable for structural applications. In this experimental study, four paste mixes were prepared, incorporating varying percentages (0%, 0.5%, 1%, and 2%) of PA fibers. Testing included drying shrinkage, autogenous shrinkage, and expansion. Results showed a notable reduction in paste shrinkage, with percentages of 12.7%, 19%, and 29% observed at 7 days with the addition of 0.5%, 1%, and 2% PA fibers, respectively, at an elevated temperature of 45°C. These findings suggest the potential for PA fibers to mitigate shrinkage in building materials, thus contributing to the overall environmental sustainability of construction practices.
