Durability of Coir Fiber–Reinforced Cement-Stabilized Rammed Earth Composite

Abstract

Cement-stabilized rammed earth (CSRE) finds applications in structural walls. The CSRE walls subjected to compression and flexure show brittle failures. The inclusion of short fibers into the CSRE matrix enhances the straining capacity and postcrack response, promoting ductile failures. Although the effect of fiber reinforcement on the mechanical behavior of the fiber-reinforced CSRE composites has been well explored, there are limited focused studies on the durability of natural fiber–reinforced CSRE composites. Establishing the durability of such composites is essential for promoting the use of natural fibers in CSRE construction. The present study focuses on the durability of coir fiber–reinforced CSRE elements. The investigations examined (1) the durability of coir fibers in the highly alkaline environment, (2) the interfacial bond strength of coir fibers in the CSRE matrix subjected to accelerated weathering tests, and (3) strength, stiffness, straining capacity, and postpeak response after subjecting the composite to accelerated durability tests. The investigations revealed that after exposure to accelerated cyclic weathering tests (1) the fiber–matrix bond strength in the CSRE composite is partially reduced, (2) there is a marginal variation in compressive strength and increased stiffness, (3) the composite retains a considerable amount of straining and energy absorption capacity, and (4) it shows satisfactory durable characteristics. Investigations revealed that the coir fiber–reinforced CSRE composite is a durable material.