Treatment methods for plant fibers for use as reinforcement in cement-based materials

The use of natural fibers in cement-based building materials has become an emerging field in the building and construction industry. Natural plant fibers are green, sustainable, and low-cost renewable resources that can be found in all parts of the world. Besides their biodegradability, studies have also established that the natural fibers also positively impacted the mechanical properties of the resulting composites. However, their utilization has also presented some challenges due to their high-water absorption, limited tensile strength, and open surface morphology that is exposed to cement hydration products and microbial degradation. Also, the fiber-cement matrix bonding and adhesion is another challenge limiting natural fiber utilization. Successful research on these challenges has been conducted and improvements were observed for the fiber-matrix adhesion and durability. Thus, herein we critically review the articles, discuss the science behind the treatment methods and suggest some intriguing issues for further investigation.