Investigating the material properties of hemp fiber and puffed rice for use in heritage conservation

Abstract

A nation’s customs and traditions are unique, including the appearance of its buildings. Restoring older buildings retains cultural connections and enhances sensitivity to the past. Conservation process materials must be distinguishable from originals for easy removal or change while matching features, a challenging task. The goal is to adopt materials similar in texture, scale, color, and form to the original. The increasing need for a sustainable environment attracts the scientific community towards alternative natural materials instead of traditional ones, adopting ecological principles. Eco-friendly materials from agricultural waste are less polluting. Bio-based materials, like hemp and rice, offer good thermal properties and replace traditional materials. Some are commercialized, while others are in the early production stages. Application conditions and potential adoption in heritage building conservation still need to be studied. Gaps in existing knowledge are addressed by assessing biomaterials’ physical properties in various conservation scenarios. Comparative analysis between new and conventional materials identifies vital advantages. The analysis also determines characteristics like thermal resistance, fire resistance, color, texture, environmental and health impact, and the production process. Findings indicate outstanding performance and can be developed in various colors and textures, essential for preserving the original structural appearance.

Keywords: Heritage building, Conservation, Material, Physical characteristics, UAE