Influence of Urena lobata Fibre Treatment on Mechanical Performance Development in Hybrid Urena lobata: Fibre/Gypsum Plaster Composites

Autogenous shrinkage is related to the chemistry and changes in internal structure of cement concrete paste on drying. This problem drying early stages that occur without any moisture transfer surrounding environment has triggered incorporation fibres matrix fill micropores control cracking (autogenous shrinkage). study aimed at investigating potential use Urena lobata (UL) fibre as microreinforcement enhancing mechanical properties hybrid UL-fibre/gypsum composites used for plasters. The was harvested from coastal region Cameroon treated with 0.06 M NaOH over different periods. Dispersion bundles composite (at Wt. % UL-fibre dosages 0, 1.5, 2.5, 3.5) facilitated by blending which also helped improve interfacial bonding between matrix. moisture/water absorption flexural within hardened were quantitatively assessed, it observed accelerated hydration process. test results showed an increment compressive strength reduction autogenous UL fibre/gypsum composites, while lower percentage additions (less than 2.5%) untreated appeared have adverse effects specimens. It properly dispersed (blended) filled fine pores providing additional nucleation site resulted a denser microstructure, turn enhanced strengths limited shrinkage.