Abstract
This research project studied the effect generated by three types of surface treatments on the maximum pull-out force of fiber extraction from concrete. The sol–gel method for impregnation of nano-silicate nanoparticles and tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) were applied, as well as the alkaline method for five types of fibers (four polymeric and one metallic) embedded at incrustation lengths of 1 and 2 cm. The absorption after each treatment was measured in order to quantify the range of variation of the fibers’ hydrophilic properties. Pull-out tests were performed using a universal double-column machine for extraction of an individual fiber from the mortar specimens. The scanning electron microscopy technique was used to observe the morphological features of the surface of the fibers with and without modification, before and after the pull-out test. Surface modification allowed for an increase in the fibers’ hydrophilic properties and an improvement of the matrix–fiber interface, which was reflected in the greater force required for extraction. Generally speaking, nano-silica raises the maximum extraction load by between 14% and 70%, and TEOS by between 9% and 85%, while sodium hydroxide (NaOH) treatment did not improve the anchoring of the polymeric fibers, but did for the metallic fiber, possibly due to the oxide products generated.
Published Version
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