APPROACHES TO IMPROVE THE PROPERTIES OF WOOD FIBER-REINFORCED CEMENTITIOUS COMPOSITES

In an attempt to improve the workability, stability, and physical and mechanical properties of wood fiber-reinforced cementitious composites (WFRCs), alkali-activated blended cements have been explored for thei r compatibility with various wood fibers such as hardwood fiber, recyc led newspaper fiber and recycled kraft paper fiber. Methods including high shear mixing, modifying the cement matrix with silica fume, and m olding pressure were evaluated as means for further strengthening the wood fiber-reinforced cement composites. Flexural strengths up to 40 M Pa. along with enhanced toughness have been achieved.