The usability of hemp fiber in the production of foam concrete

Today, the production and use of energy-efficient building materials is important. Because energy prices are increasing day by day. For this reason, it is desirable to have high energy efficiency throughout the construction and service life of structures. Insulation is one of the most important applications to increase energy efficiency. The use of aerated concrete, foam concrete and similar blocks instead of bricks as wall material in buildings increases the insulation performance of the building. Foam concrete has potential usage advantages in the construction industry due to its mechanical, acoustic, thermal and physical properties. In the production of foam concrete, cement is used as a binder and fine-grained mineral materials are used as filling material. After mixing the materials other than foam, a flowing mortar is obtained, and a homogeneous light mortar is obtained by adding foam. In order to prevent shrinkage cracks that may occur, fiber is added to the mixture in certain proportions. Generally, polypropylene, polyethylene, glass fiber and similar fibers are used. In this study, hemp fiber, a natural fiber of organic origin, was used in the production of foam concrete. It is aimed that the lightweight concrete material produced by using hemp fiber obtained from the hemp plant is functional, economical and environmentally friendly. Hemp fiber was added to the foam concrete in different proportions and in different mixture recipes. In the experimental study, 7 serial samples were produced. CEM I 42.5 R type portland cement, ground hemp soaked in water, synthetic based foaming agent and plasticizer additives were used in certain proportions. In the study, fly ash and marble dust were used as mineral filling materials. During the production phase of the samples; foam density, liter weight of fresh mortar, spreading diameter, flow times and collapse conditions were observed. Experimental samples were cured under laboratory conditions. The physical and mechanical properties of the foam concrete samples were determined by testing. The use of hemp fiber in foam concrete production is important for sustainable production.