Critical evaluation of date palm sheath fibre characteristics as a reinforcement for developing sustainable cementitious composites from waste materials

Decarbonizing the construction industry is an important step towards achieving the net-zero goals for many countries. New technologies and materials are extensively investigated and proposed to meet sustainability guidelines imposed by governments. This research develops a novel mix of sustainable pozzolanic cementitious composite ordinary Portland cement (OPC) with ground granulated blast-furnace slag (GGBS)) reinforced with date palm fibre (DPF) to evaluate the effect of varying DPF loading contents (1, 2, and 3 wt.%) and lengths (10, 20, 30, and 40 mm) on the mechanical (compressive and flexural strength) and physical properties (water absorption) of the produced composite. The effect of curing conditions and DPF surface modification on the mechanical and physical properties was also explored. The results showed that the utilization of DPF as a reinforcement for GGBS/OPC improves the flexural and compressive strength of the composites, which represents a sustainable alternative to synthetic reinforcements for construction applications. Optimal results were demonstrated at the inclusion of 20-mm alkali-treated DPF at a loading content of 1 wt.% showing an enhancement in strength by 57.12% and 30.97% of flexural and compressive strength, respectively, at 28 days of ageing in a water bath. Graphical abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.]