How do plants and fibers team up to make concrete better for nature?

The Role of Plants

Three distinct plant species were studied for their unique root systems:

• Cynodon dactylon: Fibrous roots create tiny pores, enhancing water retention.
• Lolium perenne: Taproots grow straight down, facilitating water flow.
• Paspalum notatum: Coarse roots build a strong structure, balancing water retention and stability.

The Impact of Palm Fiber

Palm fiber modifies the concrete's structure, improving its compatibility with plant roots. It:

• Connects and divides pores, forming a network.
• Enhances water retention.
• Reduces the concrete's density, aiding plant growth and stability.

What Happens When Plants Die?

The death of plants leads to:

• A loss in water-holding capacity.
• Structural instability due to dead roots.
• Potential formation of new water paths, causing issues.

However, the palm fiber network helps delay these effects, maintaining stability for a longer period.

Conclusion

This research highlights the potential of using plants and fibers to create more eco-friendly and stable concrete materials, benefiting both nature and long-term structural integrity.