Evaluating the effect of Incorporating Chicken Feather Fibers on the Technological Properties of Eco-Friendly Compressed Earth Bricks

Abstract

This paper investigates the feasibility of improving the performance of raw bricks by using chemically treated chicken feather fibers as a sustainable reinforcement material. Although numerous studies have already explored the use of chicken feathers in brick composites, this work is distinguished by the application of a novel chemical treatment involving formaldehyde and silane to enhance the fibers' compatibility with the clay matrix. The treated fibers were incorporated into raw brick samples at varying concentrations. The effects of fiber reinforcement on critical properties such as porosity, bulk density, compressive strength, and thermal conductivity were systematically analyzed. The results indicate that incorporating chemically treated chicken feather fibers reduces porosity and bulk density while increasing compressive strength within an optimal concentration range. Additionally, a significant reduction in thermal conductivity was observed, demonstrating the potential of these materials to improve thermal insulation in construction applications. This study highlights the promise of utilizing chicken feather waste, treated with formaldehyde and silane, as reinforcement in the production of eco-friendly bricks, with implications for sustainable construction practices.