Interfaces in Fibre Reinforced Cements

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe microstructure of the matrix in the vicinity of the fibre surface is quite different from the microstructure of the bulk paste matrix. This can have an important effect on the processes that take place at the interface, such as crack-fibre interaction and debonding. The present paper describes the special structure of this zone, in monofilament and bundled fibre reinforced cements, and discusses its effects on some characteristics of the mechanical performance of the composites, which cannot be predicted by analytical models assuming a uniform matrix up to the fibre surface. The modification of the microstructure at the interface as a means for improving properties in some composites is described.