In the quest for sustainable construction materials, plant-based fibers have emerged as a promising alternative to traditional steel and synthetic fibers in concrete composites. However, their vulnerability to high temperatures has been a significant hurdle, limiting their widespread adoption. A groundbreaking review published in *Discover Materials* (translated from Arabic as “Exploring Materials”) by Rayeh Nasr Al-Dala’ien from the Civil Engineering Department at Al-Balqa Applied University (BAU) sheds light on the high-temperature performance of natural-fiber reinforced concrete (NFRC), offering crucial insights for the construction and energy sectors.
The review, which synthesizes findings from over 120 studies, is the first comprehensive evaluation of NFRC’s behavior under elevated temperatures. “We aimed to bridge the gap in research by systematically addressing the performance of NFRC under high-temperature conditions,” Al-Dala’ien explains. The study reveals that the critical temperature range for NFRC is between 350°C and 450°C, beyond which spalling can lead to catastrophic damage to surrounding structures.
One of the most significant findings is that incorporating 15 mm long jute fibers effectively mitigates thermal spalling. This is a game-changer for the construction industry, as spalling is a major concern in high-temperature environments, such as those near energy generation facilities. “The inclusion of jute fibers not only enhances the fire resistance of NFRC but also contributes to its sustainability,” Al-Dala’ien notes.
The review also highlights the benefits of hybrid fibers, which combine steel or synthetic fibers with natural fibers. This hybrid approach reduces thermal spalling by 43% compared to individual additions of steel or synthetic fibers and natural fibers. This finding is particularly relevant for the energy sector, where high-strength concrete is often required to withstand extreme conditions.
Moreover, the study reveals that coconut fibers exhibit the most improved compressive strength among all natural fibers under heating conditions. Lignocellulosic fibers, such as sisal, hemp, coconut, and jute, effectively mitigate micro-cracking and violent spalling in ultra-high-performance, high-strength, and high-performance concrete.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. As the construction industry continues to seek sustainable and eco-friendly materials, NFRC offers a promising alternative to traditional concrete composites. The findings of this review provide actionable insights for fire safety design and material selection, paving the way for the broader adoption of NFRC in various applications.
For the energy sector, the enhanced fire resistance and durability of NFRC can lead to safer and more sustainable infrastructure. As Al-Dala’ien concludes, “This research not only advances our understanding of NFRC’s high-temperature performance but also opens up new possibilities for its application in the construction and energy sectors.”
Published in *Discover Materials*, this review is a significant step forward in the quest for sustainable and resilient construction materials. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and resource depletion, the insights provided by this research are more timely than ever.