Utilization of polymer chemical admixtures for surface treatment and modification of cellulose fibres in cement-based composites: a review

Present day construction activities have led to the reduction of huge quantities of non-renewable resources. The effects are found in millions of toxic mineral wastes generated accompanied by unprecedented high levels of greenhouse gas emissions. It is therefore imperative that studies on renewable materials such as cellulose fibres be examined to explore their potentials as building materials. However, two of the major challenges bedevilling its adoption on a large scale are the durability and interfacial adhesion issues which can be solved through fibre surface treatment and polymer modification. This present review is an attempt to summarize relevant selected studies on the various surface treatment methods and polymer modification used in cellulose fibre reinforced cementitious application. The review covers (1) Properties of cellulose fibres and interaction with cement (2)Types of cellulose fibers and polymers used (3) Limitations of its use in cementitious materials (4) Physical and chemical methods of surface modification (5) Factors and mechanisms responsible for improved performance of the composites and (6) Models explaining the mechanisms involved in the enhanced properties.