Interfacial phenomena in structural polymeric nano-clay synthetic fiber reinforced cementitious composites

We found that bonding with the cement matrix was improved as the shape of the fiber became more complex. Compared with the bond strength of the straight structural nano-clay synthetic fiber, use of twisted, crimped, and twisted crimped fiber increased the bond strength by 93%, 477%, and 393%, respectively. Interfacial toughness increased by 106%, 15% and 47%, respectively. The straight structural nano-clay synthetic fibers improved the bond properties by 150% compared with no added nanomaterials. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) observations of the bond properties revealed that the mechanism for the improved bond resistance was via surface damage of the fiber following pullout.