Wood–wool cement board using mixture of eucalypt and poplar

This study was carried out to explore the possibility of making cement-bonded wood–wool composite building products using eucalypt (Eucalyptus camaldulensis) and poplar (Populus deltoides). The experimental design consisted of three treatments – ratio of wood–wool mixture, percentage concentration of cement, and calcium chloride (CaCl2). The mechanical properties in terms of modulus of rupture (MOR), modulus of elasticity (MOE) and internal bond (IB) strength were investigated. The ratios of wood–wool to cement were 40:60 and 60:40 by weight. The addition of the woody material to cement clearly reduced the maximum hydration temperature and increased the time to maximum temperature. Eucalypt was generally less compatible with cement than poplar wood. Test results showed that boards made with poplar wood–wools had superior properties compared to the eucalypt and mixed wood–wools. The presence of eucalypt in mixture of woody materials typically resulted in decrease in mechanical properties. It has been noted that a dose of 5% of CaCl2 by weight of cement can enhance the effect of cement. Application of Duncan's Multiple Range Test for the mean values of the results showed that the effects of all variables and their interactions on the mechanical properties in terms of MOR, MOE and IB were highly significant (p ≤ 0.01%). The mechanical properties of most produced boards were found to satisfy the minimum requirements of ISO standard.

► The addition of woody material to cement clearly reduced the maximum hydration temperature.
► Boards made with poplar had superior properties compared to the eucalypt and mixed wood–wools.
► A dose of 5% of CaCl2 by weight of cement can enhance the effect of cement.
► The mechanical properties of most produced boards met the minimum requirements of ISO standard.