Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Composite Materials Obtained With Sludge Matrix and Agricultural Waste Inserts

Abstract

The article describes the achievement and values of the mechanical and thermal characteristics of composite materials with sludge matrix and the insertion of agricultural waste, focusing on the compressive strength and thermal conductivity coefficient. These two characteristics are essential for civil engineering applications. The compressive strength and thermal conductivity coefficient depend significantly on the insertion concentration in the composite material: the compression strength decreases, and the thermal conductivity coefficient increases as the insertion concentration increases. For mud matrix composites and seed husk insert, the compressive strength varies between 0.375 MPa and 2.292 MPa. In the case of sawdust insert, the compressive strength varies between 0.149 MPa and 2.292 MPa. These values indicate that composite materials are at the lower limit of strength of building materials, but have good insulating properties due to the low coefficient of thermal conductivity. These features recommend using them for supporting walls in light, floor-free buildings, and for partitions with good thermal insulation properties.