Wood-Cement Composites from Wastes of Pinus Sp. Wood: Effect of Particles Treatment

Abstract

The aim of this research was to produce and evaluate mechanical performance in compression parallel to the grain for composites made with wastes from Pinus sp. and Portland cement. To obtain the composites were used treated and untreated wood particles, average size 1.7mm, and Portland cement-II-E-32, determining a ratio for cement/wood/water of 1: 0.21: 0.6. Treatment of particles was based on thermal bath in water for a period of 6 hours. Effect of treatment on density and mechanical properties of these composites was analyzed, according to NBR 7215:1996. Results showed that inclusion of treated wood particles in manufacture of wood-cement composite was significant in all properties investigated, by reducing density (7%); increasing modulus of elasticity (126%) and compressive strength (70%). Large gains in these properties demonstrate the feasibility of wood-cement composites manufacture.