Natural fiber reinforced concrete

Abstract

The construction industry is responsible for the depletion of large amounts of non-renewable resources. This activity generates not only millions of tons of mineral wastes but also carbon dioxide gas emissions. More building materials based on renewable resources such as vegetable fibers are needed. This chapter discusses the utilization of natural fibers for concrete reinforcement. It includes fiber characteristics, properties and the description of the treatments that improve their performance; it covers the compatibility between the fibers and the cement matrix and also how the fibers influence cement properties. It also includes the properties and durability performance of concrete reinforced with natural fibers.