Enhancing Mechanical Performance of Hemp Fiber-reinforced Cementitious Composites

Experimental and Numerical Investigations Using RSM

Abstract

Over the past decade, cement-based composites incorporating natural fibers have emerged as promising alternatives to conventional building materials due to their environmental benefits. The current trend in sustainable construction highlights the growing interest in bio-composites, particularly mortars reinforced with vegetable fibers, which combine technical efficiency with ecological responsibility. Compared to conventional mortars, these bio-composites reduce environmental impact, improve energy efficiency through their low density, and offer enhanced crack resistance and durability under flexural stresses. Hemp fibers, with their complex internal structure and mechanical resilience, are particularly suited for reinforcing cementitious matrices. This study examines the integration of hemp fibers into cement-based composites, aiming to enhance their mechanical performance for construction use. The fibers underwent alkali treatment with different concentrations of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and were prepared in various lengths before being blended into the mortar. A design of experiments using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was employed to evaluate the influence of these variables on compressive and flexural strength, tested after 28 days of curing. The outcomes were analyzed through Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to identify optimal conditions. Additionally, a predictive model was developed to describe the behavior of the composites under varying treatment parameters. This research offers practical insights into the sustainable development of fiber-reinforced cementitious materials and highlights strategies for optimizing their mechanical performance using natural reinforcements.