STUDY ON MECHANICAL AND THERMAL PROPERTIES OF WATER HYACINTH CEMENT COMPOSITES

This study investigates the mechanical and thermal properties of a

novel cement composite incorporating water hyacinth, an abundant and

under-utilized aquatic plant. The water hyacinth fibers were treated and

mixed with cement to create a composite material. Various ratios of

water hyacinth to cement were tested to optimize the composites

properties. The mechanical properties, including compressive strength,

tensile strength and flexural strength were evaluated using standard

testing methods. The thermal properties were assessed by measuring

the thermal conductivity and specific heat capacity of the water

hyacinth cement composites. The test results indicate that the water

hyacinth cement composite exhibits promising mechanical strength and

improved thermal insulation compared to conventional cement. This

research suggests that water hyacinth, often considered a problematic

invasive species, could be effectively utilized in sustainable

construction materials.