Twenty vegetable fiber by-products from agro-industrial production of eight different commercial fibers were analyzed in this study. Based on previously established selection criteria, six main types of residue were identified. Results showed that the selected by-products may be used as reinforcement of fragile cementitious matrices, for ductility improvement. Tiles produced with composites reinforced by residual fibers of sisal baler twine, coir, eucalyptus pulp, malva, banana, or a mixture of coir fibers and eucalyptus pulp, supported flexural loads in excess of 680N in keeping with international specifications.
residues recycling; fiber-cement; roof systems; tiles
