Potential of mining waste and Hevea brasiliensis wood in the production of cement-wood panels

Abstract The incorporation of residues in cement matrices is a viable alternative in obtaining new products for civil construction and a sustainable solution for the disposal of materials discarded by industries. In this context, the objective of the study was to evaluate the potential use of quartzite and particles of Hevea brasiliensis treated with aluminum sulfate [Al2(SO4)3] in the production of cement-wood panels. Quartzite residues and Hevea brasiliensis wood particles were obtained and characterized. The wood particles were mineralized with Al2(SO4)3 at a concentration of 9%. The panels were produced with CPV-ARI Portland cement, calcium chloride (CaCl2) as additive, treated wood particles and addition of quartzite in different proportions (0, 10, 20 and 40%), totaling four treatments. The physical-mechanical and microstructural properties of the panels were determined. The mineralization of the particles contributed to the adherence to the wood-cement. The incorporation of 20% quartzite contributed to the improvement in water absorption and thickness swelling of the panels and in the increase in the modulus of elasticity (MOE) and modulus of rupture (MOR) values. The cement-wood panels were suitable for non-structural and internal use, requiring further studies to evaluate alternative methods of replacing these residues.