Breakthrough in Civil and Environmental Engineering: Researchers Introduce Bio-Aggregate-Based Composite Materials

Strategic Insights -

Researchers from Technical University have made significant discoveries in civil and environmental engineering, with a focus on developing sustainable building materials. According to the study, a new bio-aggregate-based composite material has been engineered using alternative binders and modified hemp hurds. The research shows promising results, with improved properties compared to traditional Portland cement.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study focuses on developing alternative binders for bio-aggregate-based composite materials, which has the potential to reduce the environmental impact of traditional building materials.
  • The researchers found that the combination of purified hemp hurds treated with ultrasound and an alternative binder consisting of activated MgO and silica fume resulted in a composite material with better properties compared to Portland cement.
  • The final properties of the hardened bio-composites were affected by the treatment process of the organic filler and the alkaline nature of the alternative binder.
  • The study aims to provide an alternative to traditional building materials and reduce waste by utilizing waste fillers and binders.
  • The researchers conclude that this bio-composite system has the potential to be a sustainable and environmentally friendly option for future building construction.
  • Stevulova Nadezda and Junak Jozef are part of the research team at Technical University's Faculty of Civil Engineering, working to develop and improve bio-based composite materials.

Statistics:

  • 28, 60, and 90 days are the duration considered for the hardening of green composites in the study.
  • Compressive strength and thermal conductivity of bio-composites were found to be higher compared to conventional Portland cement.
  • Water absorption of bio-composites containing alternative binders was found to be lower compared to traditional Portland cement.
  • The research concludes that the combination of purified hemp hurds and alternative binders resulted in a 42% increase in compressive strength.

Sources:

  • Twenty-first century is witnessing unrelenting growth in dissemination of waste, credits Stevulova Nadezda, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Technical University, Vysokoskolska 4, 042 00Kosice, Slovakia.
  • Green Building Materials Based on Waste Filler and Binder. Civil and Environmental Engineering, 2021,17(2):542-548. (Civil and Environmental Engineering - http://www.degruyter.com/view/j/cee)
  • Sciendo, https://doi-org.sdpl.idm.oclc.org/10.2478/cee-2021-0055
  • NewsRx. Technical University Researchers Release New Data on Civil and Environmental Engineering (Green Building Materials Based on Waste Filler and Binder). Journal of Engineering. January 17, 2022; p 3685.