Effects of different chemical pretreatments of natural fibers on the mechanical properties of cement mortar

Author(s): S. Juradin (1), I. Boko (1), I. Netinger Grubeša (2) and S. Mrakovčić
Paper category: Proceedings
Book title: Proceedings of the International Conference on Sustainable Materials, Systems and Structures (SMSS2019) New Generation of Construction Materials
Editor(s): Marijana Serdar, Nina Štirmer, John Provis
ISBN: 978-2-35158-217-6,
Vol 1. ISBN: 978-2-35158-223-7
e-ISBN: 978-2-35158-218-3
Publisher: RILEM Publications SARL
Publication year: 2019
Pages: 219-225
Total Pages: 7
Language : English

Abstract: The implementation of natural fibers in cement mortar composites can contribute to the reduction of environmental pollution with respect to the principles of global sustainability. Natural fibers are biodegradable and cheap materials, especially if they are locally available. The quality and mechanical properties of cellulosic fibers depend on the fiber type, geographic and climatic conditions where the plant is cultivated, and on the fiber extraction procedures. Owing to the presence of alkali in the cement matrix, alkaline hydrolysis of the cellulose part of fiber causes fiber degradation. Therefore, the fibers are often chemically treated prior to their addition as reinforcements to composites. Fiber modifications improve the durabilities of the fibers themselves and the fiber–cement matrix adhesion.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the influences of different chemical pretreatments of fibers on the mechanical properties of cement mortars. The cement mortar was reinforced with hemp and Spanish broom fibers. Spanish broom (Spartium junceum L.) is a perennial shrub that originates in the Mediterranean. Spanish broom fibers were extracted after resting for 28 days in seawater. Hemp fibers underwent alkali pretreatments with NaOH, NaOH, and Na2SO3. Some of these hemp fibers rested in seawater for 28 days. Twelve cement mortar mixtures with two different quantities of fibers were tested to determine the effects of seawater and alkali treatment of fibers on the mechanical properties of cement mortars.

Online publication : 2019
Publication type : full_text
Public price (Euros) : 0.00