Study on Mechanical Properties of Kenaf-Cement Composite

In this study, the mechanical properties of kenaf cement composite were investigated using different amounts of kenaf particles (mixture of kenaf core and bark and kenaf core particles). Kenaf-cement composites were manufactured at different levels (10, 15 and 20%) of different kenaf particles. Also, Portland cement and calcium chloride (as cement accelerating additive) were used in this research. Calcium chloride and water were mixed well and then kenaf particles were added to the mixture. At next stage, cement was added to the prepared mixture and all component were mixed well. Prepared mixture was molded to the wooden mold and kenaf cement composites were produced. The results obtained from mechanical evaluation of kenaf-cement composites showed the highest bending strength in 10% kenaf bark-cement composites. Also results revealed that highest modulus of elasticity of 10% kenaf core-cement products were obtained. The results of this research revealed the potential of kenaf particles as reinforcement in cement composite production.