Reinforced Bio-Based Concrete by Natural FRCM

Abstract

Biobased building materials are increasingly used in Europe thanks to their interesting hygrothermal properties, and sustainable development. The main issue results in the low mechanical performance of green concrete that limits their use in the construction industry due to safety standards. An innovative approach to solve this problem is to reinforce bio-based concrete with FRCM (Fabric Reinforced Cementitious Matrix) using two distinct modes of reinforcement: Flexural and compressive reinforcement. The flexural reinforcement consists of the fabrication of a composite sandwich made of hemp concrete core and FRCM skins. The Compressive reinforcement consists of confining hemp concrete specimens by FRCM. The influence of textile pre-impregnation and reinforcement ratio was critically investigated in the case of flexural reinforcement. Flexural reinforced specimens were tested by a 4 point bending tests while compressive reinforced specimens were tested by an axial compression test. The results shown a significant improvement in the mechanical properties of the reinforced specimens compared to reference hemp concrete specimens. For example, flexural reinforcement was found to increase the maximum load capacity by up to 17530%. Similarly, an increase in mechanical strength of 257% was achieved with compressive reinforcement. The results are promising and summarize the effectiveness of FRCM in mechanically reinforcing plant-material concrete to open new opportunities for the increasing use of these materials in the construction industry.