Haigh, Robert ORCID: 0000-0001-5776-0893, Sandanayake, Malindu ORCID: 0000-0003-4303-7279, Sasi, Soorya, Yaghoubi, Ehsan ORCID: 0000-0003-0639-0225, Joseph, Paul ORCID: 0000-0002-5503-9979 and Vrcelj, Zora ORCID: 0000-0002-1403-7416 (2024) Microstructural attributes and physiochemical behaviours of concrete incorporating various synthetic textile and cardboard fibres: A comparative review. Journal of Building Engineering, 86. ISSN 2352-7102

Abstract

The excessive use of virgin materials for manufacturing cementitious materials in the building and construction industry creates detrimental environmental effects. The integration of waste materials in composites promote sustainable opportunities within the industry. This paper presents a systematic review of the use of synthetic textile and cardboard waste fibres in concrete in conjunction with infrequently used additives such as gypsum, metakaolin, alumina and zinc oxide. The synthetic nature of polyester and nylon fibres facilitates their integration into high alkaline environments. Kraft fibres, derived from cardboard, exhibit high tensile strength but also absorb water, limiting their use in construction. However, by employing coating applications, these limitations can be mitigated. Gypsum prolongs setting times, improves workability, and enhances the sulphate resistance of concrete. Metakaolin's reactivity with calcium hydroxide results in improved strength, density, and durability. Alumina oxide can enhance the mechanical and thermal characteristics. Whereas zinc oxide, known for its UV protection and antimicrobial properties has a retarder effect and can improve the materials longevity in extreme environments. Scanning electron microscope images of the synthetic textile fibres demonstrate sustained durability features in the composite materials whereas, kraft fibres exhibited deterioration properties. Fibre bonding and deterioration aspects of the material varied within each matrix environment. This corresponded to a varied microstructural response with the fibrous materials. The findings from this review demonstrate the sustainability opportunities when integrating additive and waste materials in composite designs.

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