Fire resistance evaluation of fiber-reinforced cement composites using cellulose nanocrystals

In this study, the effect of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) on the fire resistance properties of fiber-reinforced cement composites was investigated. The main variables were CNCs content (0.4, 0.8 and 1.2vol.% compared with cement), steel fiber ratio, and exposure temperature (100, 200, 400, 600 and 800oC). The fire resistance properties, i.e., residual compressive strength, flexural strength, and porosity, were evaluated in relation with the exposure temperature of the specimens. The CNCs suspensions were prepared to composited dispersion method of magnetic stirring and ultra-sonication. CNCs are effective for increasing the compressive strength at high temperatures but CNCs do not seem to have a significant effect on flexural reinforcement. Porosity test result showed CNCs reduce the non-hydration area inside the cement and promote hydration.