Dr. Francisco Jativa, Assistant Professor at Universidad San Francisco de Quito, visited TU Darmstadt from July 1st, 2024, to August 20th , 2024. His visit was hosted by Prof. Eduardus Koenders, who is the coordinating professor at TU Darmstadt.

During his tenure at TU Darmstadt, he actively engaged with fellow researchers, fostering cross-institutional collaboration and delving deeper into bio-based materials research. In the materials laboratory, experiments were conducted using natural abaca and coconut fibers sourced from Ecuador. The testing primarily centered on two critical parameters: 1) Tenacity and 2) Thermal conductivity. Specimens were fabricated using cement paste alone and reinforced with either abaca or coconut fibers, with fiber volumes considered at 2% and 4%.

The primary objective of conducting these fundamental materials characterization tests is to establish tenacity and thermal conductivity models specifically tailored to bio-based materials. By doing so, we aim to contribute to the development of more sustainable construction materials for future structures.