Physio-mechanical properties and evaluation of gamma radiation attenuation characteristics of napier grass fiber cement board/ Kristine Mae P. Canda, Jeric L. Dometita, Rojie Sigourney M. Fernando, Jovilyn E. Galang, Jayvee DJ. Magbata, and Charlotte Anne D. Reyes.--

Bachelor's thesis

College of Engineering.-- Bachelor of science in civil engineering: Technological University of the Philippines, 2024.

Includes bibliographic references and index.

Conventional fiber cement boards, widely used as building materials, often raise concerns
due to their reliance on non-renewable or hazardous fibers, which contribute to environmental
degradation and health risks. This study investigates the potential of Napier grass fiber as a
sustainable alternative for enhancing the physio-mechanical properties and gamma radiation
attenuation characteristics of cement boards. Cement boards were fabricated with Napier grass fiber
at varying volume fractions of 0%, 5%, 10%, and 15% and evaluated at curing periods of 7, 14,
and 28 days. Physical and mechanical properties were determined following standards from the
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and Philippine National Standards (PNS),
while gamma radiation attenuation was measured using a RAM R-200 survey meter. The results
showed that the cement board with 10% Napier grass fiber content exhibited the most suitable
performance, achieving the highest modulus of rupture (MOR) value of 23.56 kg/cm2 (2.31 MPa)
at 14 days of curing. Additionally, it demonstrated minimal thickness swelling and the highest
linear attenuation coefficient of 0.715 mm−1. These findings suggest that Napier grass fiber is a
viable reinforcement material for fiber cement boards, offering improved mechanical properties
and enhanced radiation shielding potential, particularly for applications in radiation-exposed
environments.