Feasibility and properties of cement boards with waste tyre textile fibre for non-structural applications

Abstract

This research underscores the potential of waste tyre textile fibre (WTTF) to contribute to sustainable building practices by reducing environmental impact through waste recycling and improving material performance in specific construction applications. It assessed the feasibility of manufacturing cement boards by incorporating WTTF for non-structural purposes like partition walls, wall sidings, and ceiling panels and eaves. The physical and mechanical characteristics of the cement boards were investigated to identify the most effective WTTF content for optimal performance and to compare the findings with commercial cement boards (control specimens). The cement boards were manufactured by partially replacing cement with 5%, 7.5%, and 10% WTTF by weight. Testing involved three specimens per mix for density, water absorption, and thickness swelling and twelve specimens per mix for flexural strength for 7, 14, 21, and 28 days of natural curing. The results indicated that average densities decreased with increasing WTTF content, and water absorption in-creased with higher WTTF content, reaching minimum density and maximum water absorption at 10% WTTF substitution, which are higher than the average density and water absorption of the control specimens. Thick-ness swelling was 0% for the control specimens but rose with increased WTTF content in the mixes. Flexural strength improved with higher WTTF content and longer curing time, demonstrating significant strength improvements. The optimum cement board mix had 5% WTTF, which showed the highest density (1952 kg/m³), lowest water absorption (28.26%), and minimal thickness swelling (3.35%). As a result, WTTF is compatible with cement paste and holds potential for non-structural construction applications when used to substitute a portion of the cement in cement boards at a 5% ratio. However, these boards are unsuitable for areas with continuous water exposure because of their high water absorption and thickness swelling.

Keywords: Sustainability in construction, Cement boards, Waste tyre textile fibre, Non-structural applications, Physical and mechanical properties

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1005738