Journal of Emerging Trends in Engineering and Applied Sciences: Research Areas

Article Title: Tensile and Compressive Strength Characteristics of Raffia Palm Fibre-Cement Composites
by Odera, R.S., Onukwuli, O.D. and Osoka, E.C

Abstract:
The tensile and compressive strength of raffia palm fiber-cement composites for low cost roofing tiles was investigated. The composites were prepared at varying sand-to-cement ratios (1 - 5), water-to-cement ratios (0.4 - 0.8) and fiber volume fraction (0 - 4%). The tensile and compressive strengths of the samples were determined and a statistical model based on a three-level full factorial experimental study was developed and the significance of all factors and interactions determined. The results show that increasing any of the three factors reduces tensile and compressive strength, with sand-to-cement ratio being the most significant. Tensile and compressive strength have the same local optimum (maximum) at sand-to-cement ratio of 1, water-to-cement ratio of 0.4 and fiber volume fraction of 0%. Raffia palm fiber at low fibre volume fraction and with proper fibre alignment can be used for the manufacture of low cost wall, ceiling and roofing tiles based on the above specification

Keywords: raffia palm, fibre, cement composites, tensile strength, compressive strength, optimization

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