Exploring the potential of aramid nanofibers in advancing green-engineered cementitious composites
Huayang Sun, Yan Wan, Zhichao Xu, Yanlin Huo, Minjie Jia, Yingzi Yang
Abstract
ABSTRACT This study developed an environmentally friendly engineered cementitious composite (ECC) reinforced with aramid nanofibers (ANFs) derived from recycled aramid fibers. ANFs were incorporated into ECC containing high-volume fly ash to improve their strength and ductility. Results showed that adding 0.05 wt. % ANFs increased the compressive strength, tensile strength, and tensile strain of ECC by 46.71%, 46.23%, and 51.45%, respectively. The mechanisms through which ANFs enhance the mechanical properties of ECC were investigated through single-fiber pull-out tests, micromechanical analysis, and microstructural analysis. ANFs contributed to filling the pores within the matrix, reducing the matrix porosity and inhibiting crack propagation, which consequently enhanced the compressive properties of ECC. Furthermore, ANFs significantly narrowed the interfacial transition zone (ITZ) at the fiber/matrix interface, thereby improving the frictional bond strength and pull-out energy, ultimately enhancing the tensile ductility of ECC. This study demonstrates the potential of ANFs-reinforced ECC as a sustainable and high-performance material.