Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the degradation of the microstructure and mechanical properties of fiber cement board (FCB), which was exposed to environmental hazards, resulting in thermal impact on the microstructure of the board. The process of structural degradation was conducted under laboratory conditions by storing the FCB specimens in a dry, electric oven for 3 h at a temperature of 230 °C. Five sets of specimens, that differed in cement and fiber content, were tested. Due to the applied heating procedure, the process of carbonization and resulting embrittlement of the fibers was observed. The fiber reinforcement morphology and the mechanical properties of the investigated compositions were identified both before, and after, their carbonization. Visual light and scanning electron microscopy, X-ray micro tomography, flexural strength, and work of flexural test Wf measurements were used. A dedicated instrumentation set was prepared to determine the ultrasound testing (UT) longitudinal wave velocity cL in all tested sets of specimens. The UT wave velocity cL loss was observed in all cases of thermal treatment; however, that loss varied from 2% to 20%, depending on the FCB composition. The results obtained suggest a possible application of the UT method for an on-site assessment of the degradation processes occurring in fiber cement boards.
Highlights
Fiber cement board (FCB) is a versatile, green, and widely-applied building material. It acts as a substitute for natural wood and wood-based products, such as plywood or oriented strand boards (OSB)
FCB façades are exposed to a variety of different environmental hazards
The and ofofallallofofthe compositions were analysed by Themorphology morphology andsurface surfaceviews views theinvestigated investigated were analysed visual light microscopy
Summary
Fiber cement board (FCB) is a versatile, green, and widely-applied building material. It acts as a substitute for natural wood and wood-based products, such as plywood or oriented strand boards (OSB). The properties of FCB, as a construction material, make it preferable for use as a ventilated, façade cladding for newly-built and renovated buildings, interior wall coverings, balcony balustrade panels, base course and chimney cladding, and enclosure soft-fit lining [1]. Fiber cement components have been used in construction for over 100 years, mainly as roofing covers, in the form of corrugated plates or non-pressurized tubes. FCB façades are exposed to a variety of different environmental hazards. The facade boards are usually fixed to the wallMaterials 2019, 12, 944; doi:10.3390/ma12060944 www.mdpi.com/journal/materials
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