TITLE:
Preliminary Hygrothermal Characterization of Earth-Sand-Typha Plasters Based on Local Resources for Crinting Roofs
AUTHORS:
Hamidou Sy, Thierry Boutin, Ibrahima Sori Diallo, Mathioro Fall
KEYWORDS:
Typha, Plaster, Earth, Thermal
JOURNAL NAME:
Geomaterials,
Vol.16 No.4,
September
28,
2026
ABSTRACT: This research examines the initial hygrothermal properties of plasters composed of clay soil, sand, and Typha fibers, intended for use in crinting roofs. Five formulations containing from 0 to 9.5% Typha were studied to evaluate the influence of fiber incorporation on density, moisture content, thermal conductivity, and thermal effusivity. The results show that increasing the Typha content leads to a decrease in density, from 1840 to 1490 kg·m−3, and in thermal conductivity, from 0.79 to 0.43 W·m−1·K−1. Concurrently, the moisture content measured after drying increases from 2.6 to 5.6%. These results demonstrate that the incorporation of Typha improves the insulating properties of the plasters while modifying their moisture behavior. The F4 formulation (7.5% Typha) offers a promising compromise between reduced thermal conductivity, decreased density, and moderate water content. However, further tests of durability, adhesion, capillary absorption, and watertightness are essential to confirm the ability of these mixtures to waterproof crinting roofs.