Not conventional materials for a sustainable construction : a bio-construction system reinforced with cellulose fibres

Abstract

The aim of this research was to determine the main characteristics and relative performance, in comparison to conventional masonry, of a composed hempcrete or hemp-concrete. The material under investigation was made of hemp cellulose and waste paper pulp from paper waste, with a composed binder of metakaolin and lime, without cement addition. This made for lighter concrete with superior characteristics to those of traditional concrete, in that it allowed for manufacturing of blocks and boards, and so the development of a prefabrication system. The main characteristics of this composed hempcrete or hemp-concrete were therefore studied, and its relative performance evaluated both in terms of thermal and acoustic insulation, and in terms of mechanical strength.