STUDY OF INTEGRATION, DISTRIBUTION AND DEGRADATION OF SUGARCANE BAGASSE FIBER AS PARTIAL REPLACEMENT FOR FINE AGGREGATE IN CONCRETE SAMPLES

Abstract

In this study, structural and morphological characterizations were carried out to evaluate the integration, distribution and degradation of sugarcane bagasse fiber (CBF) in a concrete matrix. The samples for evaluation were modified by adding CBF in 0.5% and 1% wt proportions. The modified concrete specimens were exposed to different aggressive conditions over four years before use. The chemical and structural properties of the modified samples were evaluated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, while the morphology, distribution and fiber degradation in the samples were determined using scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy, respectively. The results obtained from spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction indicated the presence of cellulose, and showed a change in molecular orientation, which was attributed to the hydrolysis reaction. The microscopy analyses revealed that the CBF did not undergo degradation.