Characterization of Polymeric Fibers as Reinforcements of Cement-Based Composites

In this study, three polymeric fibers (nylon 66, polypropylene, and acrylic) were used to improve the flexural and tension strength of cementitious materials. To characterize the performance of these fibers in a cement matrix, scanning electron microscopy, optical microscopy, dynamic mechanical analysis, tensile strength testing, and alkali resistance test were employed. The performance of cement-based composites containing the fibers was evaluated with a flexural strength test. The results indicated that the flexural strength increased with an increasing number of interfacial interactions between the fibers and cement. This finding was supported by dynamic mechanical analysis data. This has great application potential for fibers. (C) 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 115: 2779-2785, 2010