Experimental study and thermal simulation of a clay-based material reinforced with date palm fibers: Application to the climatic context of Oujda city (Morocco)

Abstract

The building sector represents a major source of energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions such as eastern Morocco, where temperature fluctuations are significant. As an alternative to conventional materials, unfired clay bricks offer ecological benefits but still require thermal optimization. This study explores the incorporation of 13 wt% date palm fibers (DPF), an abundant agricultural waste, into clay bricks to enhance their thermophysical performance. The raw materials were characterized using standard geotechnical, mineralogical (XRD), and thermal methods. Results revealed that adding 3% DPF reduced thermal conductivity by 32.44% and thermal diffusivity by 29.7%, while increasing specific heat capacity by 10.27%, thus improving thermal inertia. A decrease in density of about 10.54% was also observed. TRNSYS simulations showed that using 3% DPF reduced annual cooling and heating energy demands by approximately 19.74% and 12.5%, respectively, with an overall energy saving of 19.17%. These enhancements contribute to stabilizing indoor temperatures and reducing reliance on mechanical systems. This study confirms the potential of DPF as a low-cost, bio-based additive for improving the energy efficiency of earthen materials and promoting sustainable construction practices in hot climate regions.