Properties of Concrete Reinforced with a Basalt Fiber Microwave-Absorbing Shielding Layer

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to propose a highly efficient, durable, and environmentally friendly method for the rapid removal of ice and snow. A microwave-absorbing functionality layer was placed between a conductive metal mesh and magnetite sand shielding layer, and ordinary cement concrete (OC). Microwave heating, mechanical strength determination, and indoor and outdoor de-icing tests were performed on the cement concrete specimens with the shielding layer. Basalt fibers were added to the absorbing functionality layer, and the formed specimens were tested for strength and durability. The microstructure was observed using SEM experiments. The results show that the temperature rise of microwave-absorbing cement concrete with a magnetite sand shielding layer (MCMS) and microwave-absorbing cement concrete with a conductive metal mesh shielding layer (MCMM) increased by approximately 17.2% and 27.1%, respectively, compared to that of microwave-absorbing concrete (MAC). After freeze–thaw cycles, the compressive strength and flexural strength of microwave-absorbing concrete with basalt fiber (MAB) increased by 4.35% and 7.90% compared to those of MAC, respectively. The compressive strength and flexural strength of microwave-absorbing concrete with a magnetite sand shielding layer and basalt fiber (MAMB) increased by 8.07% and 6.57%, respectively, compared to those of MCMS. Compared to specimens without basalt fiber, the wear rate per unit area of MAMB decreased by 8.8%, and the wear rate of MAB decreased by 9.4%. The water absorption rate of MAMB specimens decreased by 13.1% and 12.0% under the conditions of 20 and 40 microwave freeze–thaw cycles, respectively, compared to that of MCMS. The water absorption rate of MAB specimens decreased by 9.9% and 8.3% under the conditions of 20 and 40 microwave freeze–thaw cycles, respectively, compared to that of MAC. SEM analysis showed that the addition of basalt fibers improved the compactness and stability of the cement concrete structure as a whole. This study provides valuable references for the promotion and application of microwave de-icing technology.