Experimental research

Includes bibliographical references

This work investigated the possibility of employing the materials eggshell powder (ESP) and cardboard waste fibers (CBW) as the raw material in sustainable production of fiber-reinforced cement board. The study investigated the influences of ESP as a partial replacement for Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) and CBW partial replacement for commercial cellulose fibers on flexural strength, water absorption and thermal resistivity of cement board. A laboratory investigation was conducted employing four mix proportions for replacement levels: 0% (control), 5% (Mix A), 10% (Mix B), and 15% (Mix C). The samples were prepared, cast, cured for 28 days and tested for flexural strength, water absorption and thermal resistivity in accordance with ASTM standards. The data were subjected to One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and evaluated at 95% confidence interval (a 0.05). The results indicated that the flexural strength was decreased with the increasing replacement level, but all modified mixtures satisfied the ASTM requirements for fiber cement board. The modified mixes had lower water absorption than the control, with the lowest value of Mix B (10% ESP and 10% CBW). As for thermal properties, Mix B had the highest thermal resistivity, suggesting better insulation. Statistical analysis revealed no significant differences among the different mix proportions in all tested properties. Overall, Mix B was identified as the optimum mixture due to its balanced flexural performance, moisture resistance, and thermal insulation. The research proved that eggshell powder and cardboard waste fibers can be used as sustainable construction materials, promoting waste reduction and environmental sustainability.