Mechanical performance of fiber-reinforced alkali activated un-calcined earth-based composites
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Date
2020
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Abstract
This paper presents the results of a multi-scale study of the mechanical properties of model earth-based composites. The composites are produced by the alkali activation of in-situ clay minerals within an earthbased matrix that is reinforced with two different fibers (sisal and polypropylene). The local mechanical properties of the fibers, binder and matrix materials are characterized at the nano- and micro-scales using nano-indentation and statistical deconvolution techniques. The macro-mechanical properties are
also elucidated using a combination of flexural strength testing, and resistance-curve experiments. The underlying strengthening and toughening mechanisms are explored using a combination of in-situ/exsitu observations and micro-mechanical models. The implications of the results are then discussed for the design of strengthened and toughened earth-based composites that are reinforced with natural fibers (such as sisal) and synthetic fibers (such as polypropylene fibers).