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The paper, authored by Arnas Majumder, Monica Valdes, Andrea Frattolillo, Enzo Martinelli, and Flavio Stochino, introduces the first structural-scale application of a Natural Fiber Textile-Reinforced Mortar (NFTRM) system using jute fibers. The research demonstrates how an integrated package of jute fiber nets, diatons, and composite mortar can simultaneously strengthen and insulate masonry walls.

Key findings include:

574% increase in load-bearing capacity compared to unstrengthened masonry walls.

37% reduction in thermal transmittance, improving insulation performance.

Enhanced ductility and crack control, validated with Digital Image Correlation (DIC) techniques.

This work highlights NFTRM as a sustainable alternative to traditional fiber-based retrofitting systems, achieving both structural safety and energy efficiency without relying on synthetic insulation materials.

Read the full article (open access): https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15162852