The Mechanical and Durability Properties of Cement Mortars with Different Types of Fibers and Chemical Admixtures

Abstract

Improving the mechanical and durability properties of cement-based materials such as concrete is very important. The use of fibers is a good alternative in cement-based materials production. This study investigated workability, some mechanical and durability properties of cement mortar in cooperation with glass and basalt fiber. Basalt and glass fibers were used instead of the aggregate in the mixture as 0.8 and 1% by weight. The compatibility of the polycarboxylate-based water reducer and the modified phosphonate-based water reducer as chemical admixtures in selected ratios and fibers was tested. Experiments were carried out after 7 and 28 days of water cure and the effect of the curing periods were also determined. Flexural strength values of basalt fiber reinforced samples in all sets were found to be more than glass fiber reinforced samples. However, high compressive strength are obtained in glass fiber reinforced samples. Beside the positive results obtained in the mechanical properties, the effects of the fibers in the abrasion and acid resistance (10% hydrochloric acid solution during 30 days) have given positive results.