Potential use of curaua fiber (Ananas erectifolius) for cementitious production composite

Abstract

This study aimed to characterize and evaluate the performance of the Amazonian plant fiber curaua (Ananas erectifolius) as reinforcement in the cementitious composite panels’ production process. For the production of these panels were determined extractives content and bulk density of the fibers. The panels were produced with curaua fibers, varying the contents (5%, 10% and 20%). Also, as a methodology, vegetable fibers were treated through immersion in cold water for 24 hours, immersion in hot water for 6 hours, and finally immersed in NaOH solution for 2 hours at a concentration of 1%. The panels were manufactured in the dimensions of 500x500x15 mm, a nominal bulk density of 1.60 g/cm³ and kept under pressure (4 MPa) for 24 hours. After pressing the panels were conditioned for 28 days for cement cure. As a result, it was observed that the incorporation of 10% curaua fibers is possible as reinforcement in the cementitious matrix, in the manufacture of wood-concrete panels. It was also found that the chemical treatment of the fibers provided the improvement in the physical properties of the composites.