30 - Challenges and solutions for the use of natural fibers in cementitious composites

Abstract

Natural fibers are sustainable alternatives to the conventional reinforcements that can be incorporated to improve the performance of cementitious composites in terms of certain mechanical and durability performance. However, the use of natural fibers in cementitious composites is encountered with various challenges, which have limited their use. To propel more application of natural fibers as a sustainable alternative to the conventional fibers, it is critical to identify and understand various limitations associated with the use of natural fibers in cementitious composites and possible solutions to the problems. In this chapter, the major challenges associated with the use of natural fibers in cementitious composites are discussed alongside the possible solutions. Discussion in this chapter showed that with proper pretreatment of natural fibers and/or use of supplementary cementitious materials as a replacement of Portland cement in cementitious composites, the majority of the challenges can be solved. It is also suggested that more research and development in the use of natural fibers in cementitious composites is still needed in order to gear more practical applications.