Effects of Pretreatment Methods and Physical Properties of Cellulose Fibers on Compatibility of Fiber-Cement Composites: A Review

One of the most serious environmental issues of our day is climate change, which is being caused by the massive quantities of non-renewable resources that are being depleted as a consequence of construction activities. The extensive use of ecologically friendly construction materials is thus essential. In this scenario, the development of biobased cellulose fibers for reinforcement of cement composites may open the door to effectively substituting these environmentally sustainable, biodegradable, and biocompatible fibers with conventional, non- renewable fibers. However, there are concerns regarding cellulose fiber’s compatibility with the cement matrix, which inhibits the use of these efficient and sustainable materials. The present article entails the existing research gaps in the field of challenges inhibiting the use of cellulose fibers for reinforcing cement composites owing to fiber-cement compatibility, as well as feasible solutions to cover those gaps. This study discusses techniques for improving the bonding adhesion of cellulose fiber-cement matrix, with a focus on physical properties of cellulose fibers and effectiveness of different pre-treatment methods. The article provides in-depth information on the influence of cellulose fiber surface scales, ranging from macro to nano, on the fiber- cement bonding adhesion level. The article further discusses the use of different pre-treatment methods, including physical, chemical and Enzymatic pretreatment of cellulose fibers as a means of enhancing the compatibility of fiber-cement matrices.