Mathematical modelling, multi-objective optimization, and compliance reliability of paper-derived eco-composites

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Civil Engineering
• Sustainable Construction

Background:

• High construction costs drive demand for affordable and thermally efficient structural materials.
• Waste paper pulp presents an opportunity for developing novel composite materials.
• Integrating recycled materials into construction addresses environmental concerns and resource management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the potential of waste paper pulp-cement-sand composites as cost-effective structural materials.
• To determine the optimal mix proportions of cement and sand for enhancing material strength.
• To evaluate the mechanical properties and microstructural characteristics of the developed composites.

Main Methods:

• Composites were prepared with varying percentages of cement (10-40 wt.%) and sand (5-20 wt.%) with waste paper pulp.
• Mechanical properties, including compressive, bending, and splitting strengths, were evaluated after 28 days of curing.
• Microstructural analysis was performed to understand fiber-matrix bonding and composite performance.
• Optimization and statistical modeling (ANOVA) were employed to predict and validate material responses.

Main Results:

• Increasing cement and sand content generally enhanced the strength properties of the composites.
• Specific combinations (e.g., 30 wt.% cement/15 wt.% sand) showed reduced bending strength.
• Microstructural examination revealed good bonding between pulp fibers, hydration products, and sand.
• An optimal composition of 35.27% cement and 20% sand was identified, meeting strength requirements.

Conclusions:

• Waste paper pulp can be effectively utilized in cement-sand composites for structural applications.
• The developed materials offer a cost-effective and potentially sustainable alternative for low-cost construction.
• The study provides a statistically validated model for predicting the performance of these novel composites.
• The optimized composite composition demonstrates compliance with standard strength requirements for construction.