Mechanical behavior of natural fiber textile reinforced mortar sheets

Abstract

This paper summarizes preliminary results of an experimental research project aimed to develop natural fiber textile-reinforced mortars (NFTRM) to be used in the construction industry. Here, the bending behavior of mortar sheets reinforced using fique textiles was analyzed. In order to assess the influence of a textile grid on the bending behavior of mortar sheets, two different fique fabrics were used to cast square plates. Their mechanical bending behavior strength were also compared with mortar sheets reinforced using commercial fibers. Results showed that fique fabrics are a promising substitute for commercial fibers because they provide the material with an adequate flexural behavior, showing a remarkable increase in ductility and the capacity to store energy after cracking.