Magnetic orientation of sisal fibers in cementitious matrix: mechanical behavior and image analysis

Abstract

This work presents the preliminary results of an experimental investigation focused on the magnetic orientation of natural sisal fibers embedded in a cementitious matrix. The objective of this research is to evaluate the effect of magnetic orientation of sisal fibers on the mechanical behavior of thin cementitious plates tested under flexion. In the first phase, the work addresses the development of a coating which is applied to short sisal fibers in order to provide their magnetic alignment. The second phase is focused on the methodology employed for the magnetic orientation of the reinforcement. The final phase involves the mechanical characterization and image analysis (radiography and calculation of the fiber orientation factor) of the cementitious composites. The results indicated that the magnetic alignment of sisal fibers in cementitious matrix is possible and contributes to the composite flexural performance.