Mineralization of bio-based materials: effect on cement-based mix properties

The lightweight concrete with bio-based products knows an interesting development in the construction field, especially as thermal insulation panels for walls in buildings. Before identifying and quantifying the basic physical characteristics of concrete made from wood, miscanthus, hemp or bamboo (acoustic and thermal properties in particular), it is necessary to optimize the composition of the product. It is clear that the final product is not unique and a compromise has to be found between insulation and mechanical properties. The long term stability as well as the reinforcement may be obtained by means of a mineralization process of the natural product: a preparation with a lime and/or cement-based material is necessary to reinforce the cohesion of the bio-based product. Optical and SEM analysis helped to clearly understand the interactions between the bio-based fibrous material and the cementitious materials, the quality of the bond and their effects on the properties of the cement-based concrete products.