The Different Properties of Geopolymer Composites Reinforced with Flax Fibers and Carbon Fibers

Abstract

The main motivation for this research was to improve the properties of geopolymers by reinforcement using synthetic and natural fibers, and to gain new knowledge regarding how the nature and/or the quantity of reinforcement fibers influences the properties of the final geopolymers. The main objective was to investigate the effects of different types of reinforcement fibers on the properties of the geopolymers. These reinforcement fibers were mainly environmentally friendly materials that can be used as alternatives to ordinary Portland cement. The authors used fly ash and river sand as the raw materials for the matrix, and added carbon fibers (CF), flax fibers (FF), or a hybrid of both (CFM) as reinforcements. The samples were prepared by mixing, casting, and curing, and then subjected to various tests. The main research methods used were compressive strength (CS), flexural strength (FS), water absorption (WA), abrasion resistance (Böhme’s disk method), microstructure analysis (SEM), chemical composition (XRF), and crystal structure analysis (XRD). The results showed that the addition of fibers partially improved the mechanical properties of the geopolymers, as well as reducing microcracks. The CF-reinforced geopolymers exhibited the highest compressive strength, while the FF-reinforced geopolymers showed the lowest water absorption. The authors, based on previous research, also discussed the factors that influence fiber-matrix adhesion, and the optimal fiber content for geopolymers.