Mechanical Reinforcement of Building Materials with Microfibers Produced by Electrospinning

Abstract

This study investigated the reinforcement of cementitious materials with electrospun polymer microfibers, in particular fibers of cellulose acetate (CA). A systematic study was conducted to characterize the influence of fiber production parameters in the resulting fiber diameter, and the effect of various methods to mix fiber and cement in the resulting distribution of fibers in the composite and its mechanical properties. Electrospinning parameters, including polymer solution concentration, emitter voltage, emitter-collector distance, solution flow rate, and emitter gauge were analyzed to understand their effects on fiber morphology and diameter. Optimal settings, such as a distance of 10 cm, a voltage of 12 kV, and a flow rate of 1.6 ml/hr, resulted in reduced fiber diameter, with the G-18 gauge exhibiting the most favorable outcomes. Different mixing techniques, including vertical with a magnetic stirrer and horizontal methods, demonstrated varying effects on sample strength, with the horizontal approach yielding superior results due to more uniform fiber distribution. Visual inspection confirmed effective fiber blending, attributed to the use of advanced mixing techniques. Compressive strength testing of cement samples reinforced with 0.1% fiber showed significant improvements compared to the control samples. These findings contribute to the advancement of electrospun microfiber composites for enhancing the mechanical properties of cementitious materials in construction applications. Further research is warranted to optimize mixing techniques and explore alternative materials for composite reinforcement. Keywords: Electrospinning; Cellulose Acetate; Microfibers; Mechanical properties; Compressive strength