BAMBOO FIBER AND COCONUT HUSK FIBER REINFORCEDCEMENT COMPOSITE MATERIALS

This work is concerned with the development of bamboo fiber and coconut husk fiber reinforced cement composite materials. Some samples are made with the addition of latex cement modifier. The strength, toughness and cracking resistance of these composites are all notably improved when compared with neat cement. The effects of fiber weight fraction, latex and water content on tensile, flexural and impact properties of these natural fiber reinforced composites are investigated. The microstructural failure mechanisms are also discussed.