A Review of the Use of Coconut Fiber in Cement Composites

The use of plant fibers in cementitious composites has been gaining prominence with the need for more sustainable construction materials. It occurs due to the advantages natural fibers provide to these composites, such as the reduction of density, fragmentation, and propagation of cracks in concrete. The consumption of coconut, a fruit grown in tropical countries, generates shells that are improperly disposed of in the environment. The objective of this paper is to provide a comprehensive review of the use of coconut fibers and coconut fiber textile mesh in cement-based materials. For this purpose, discussions were conducted on plant fibers, the production and characteristics of coconut fibers, cementitious composites reinforced with coconut fibers, cementitious composites reinforced with textile mesh as an innovative material to absorb coconut fibers, and treatments of coconut fiber for improved product performance and durability. Finally, future perspectives on this field of study have also been highlighted. Thus, this paper aims to understand the behavior of cementitious matrices reinforced with plant fibers and demonstrate that coconut fiber has a high capacity to be used in cementitious composites instead of synthetic fibers.

Automated summary

The use of plant fibers in cementitious composites, particularly coconut fibers, has gained attention due to their advantages in reducing density, fragmentation, and crack propagation. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the use of coconut fibers and coconut fiber textile mesh in cement-based materials, discussing production, characteristics, reinforcement techniques, and treatments for improved performance. Future prospects in this field are also highlighted, aiming to demonstrate the potential of coconut fiber as a sustainable alternative to synthetic fibers in cementitious composites.