Experimental study of the addition of oil palm mesocarp fiber on the physical and mechanical properties of fiber cement mortar composites

Abstract Composite materials based on natural fibers are increasing in demand various sectors of industry because their interesting specific properties. This work is a contribution to the valorization, plant from agricultural plantations Cameroon, fiber cement mortar (FCM). paper studies influence addition oil palm mesocarp (OPMF) physical (water absorption, density and compactness) mechanical (compressive strength flexural strength) properties mortars. The used this extracted (palm kernel pulp) by manual process. Cement specimens were then made with different proportions fibers: 0% (reference mortar), 1%, 2%, 3% 3.5% fibers. Physical tests carried out our specimens. Regardless duration immersion water, results show that water absorption rate increases greater amount FCM On other hand, an inverse effect observed density, which decreases 2277.5 (samples fiber) 942.1 kg/m 3 for apparent 2641.2 1945.7 absolute density. properties, there steady decrease compressive 42.47 (for reference at 31.1 MPa sample fiber). In bending, first increase maximum obtained 2% composition. has better strength/density ratio. Finally, OPMF, small proportion mortar, allows lightening structure, but induces resistance. Our can be manufacture cinderblocks or as internal wall roughcoating mortar.