Assessment of vegetable fiber-matrix adhesion and durability, in cement-based and polymer-based composite: Principles from literature review

This paper presents some principles of research done on the assessment of fiber-matrix adhesion and durability in cement-based and polymer-based composites reinforced with vegetable fibers. Natural vegetable fibers are light, biodegradable and low-cost; however, their compatibility with both matrices - which are generally hydrophobic- is poor, because of their hydrophilic character. This review presents the different strategies proposed in literature to improve (1) interfacial bonding between matrix and fibers and (2) sustainability of composite materials reinforced by vegetable fibers. In order to achieve these goals, searchers investigate chemical or/and physical treatments of fibers and/or matrix modification of composites materials. The impacts of these strategies are followed in terms of mechanical properties, thermal properties, morphology and water absorption of the composite materials. Authors proposed to focus on the influence of aging on these characteristics in order to estimate durability.