The Impact of Goat Hair as a Natural Animal Fiber on Properties of the Lightweight Cement Composite

Abstract This study investigates the potential of goat hair as a natural fiber reinforcement in lightweight cement composites, aiming to enhance the mechanical properties and sustainability of building materials. The research systematically evaluates the flexural and compressive strengths of cement composites reinforced with goat hair fibers, observing performance across two key time frames: the 7th and 28th days after mixing. Results indicate that the inclusion of goat hair significantly improves both the flexural and compressive strengths of the composites over time. The best result was obtained at a 0.4% ratio of goat hair to cement. This research underscores the effectiveness of goat hair in cement composites, suggesting that such natural fiber reinforcements can contribute to more sustainable and durable building practices. The findings advocate for further exploration of natural fibers in the construction industry, aiming to optimize eco-friendly materials for improved mechanical properties and environmental impact.