UCU Scholar :: Browsing by Author "Esther Kirule Babirye"

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Assessing the Suitability of Using Sisal Fiber as a Reinforcement in Woodcrete
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-12-11) Esther Kirule Babirye
The conventional concrete blocks in Uganda are not only heavy but also increase the need for larger structural elements which increases the cost making the need for the development of lightweight and eco-friendly alternatives Woodcrete being one of the materials however, it is weak and susceptible to micro-cracking problems. The main objective of the research is to find out the mechanical and durability improvement of woodcrete when sisal fibers treated with alkali are added in the amount of 0-2% in the 1:2 cement-sawdust matrix. The tests performed in the laboratory included: density, compressive strength, tensile strength and water. At 1.5% fiber content, the best result was reached giving a compressive strength of 3.7 MPa, a tensile strength of 1.08 MPa and a density decrease to 1325.5 kg/m³, which corresponds to a dead-load reduction of 26.36%. To conclude, sisal fibers particularly at 1.0-1.5% serve as an excellent reinforcement and contribute to the strength, cracking resistance, and durability of woodcrete, which can be used as a very good lightweight material for non-load bearing construction in Uganda.