No abstract

This paper examines the mechanical properties of a composite material made of modified Iraqi gypsum (juss) reinforced with polypropylene fibers. The modified juss was prepared by adding two percentages of cement (5, 10) %. Two percentages of polypropylene fibers were used, to reinforce the modified juss (1, 2) %. The water/dry compound ratio used was equal to 0.53%. The composite was evaluated based on compressive strength, flexural strengths, absorption percentage, density, acoustic impedance, ultrapulse velocity, longitudinal shrinkage and setting time tests. The results indicated that the inclusion of cement on to juss increases the compressive strength, absorption percentage, density, acoustic impedance, ultrapulse velocity, longitudinal shrinkage and a reduction in flexural strength and setting time were observed by adding the cement. In addition, the inclusion of polypropylene fiber was significant in improving mechanical performance of the composite material, it shows a great improvement in longitudinal shrinkage, modulus of rupture and absorption percentages.