8 - Mechanical performance of steel fiber-reinforced alkali-activated composites

Abstract

The unprecedented carbon footprints in Portland cement (OPC) production and the intrinsic properties of cement-based composites propel the need to develop a new durable, more sustainable building material with minimal environmental impact. Over the last decade, the development of alkali-activated composites (AACs) and geopolymers as a replacement for OPC-based products have picked up, and extensive research has been undertaken worldwide. However, the AACs and geopolymer composites, driven by the chemical reaction between the aluminate-rich source materials (Al2SiO5) and the alkaline solution, show quasi-brittle behavior. To overcome this problem, researchers have undertaken studies to develop, characterize, and implement fiber reinforcement in AACs/geopolymers to develop a sustainable, energy-efficient, green material alternative. The incorporation of fibers has an enormous impact on composites’ mechanical and durability properties, particularly while dealing with the pernicious forms of loading and deteriorating environmental conditions. The topic presents a systematic approach to thoroughly review the mechanical properties of steel fiber reinforcement in AACs and geopolymer composites. The multiparameters and factors that critically influence the mechanical properties of steel fiber-reinforced composites are studied. In addition, the study aims to highlight gaps and pinpoint areas for future research concerning the mechanical properties of steel fiber-reinforced AACs and geopolymers. It may facilitate focused research on the mechanical endurance of steel fiber-reinforced alkali-activated materials for long-term, large-scale adoption, and commercialization.