Mechanical Performance of Surface-Modified Cedrus libani Acicular Leaf Fiber-Reinforced Cementitious Composites under Freeze–Thaw Exposure

Abstract

Natural fibers are important reinforcing elements in the development of sustainable building and architectural design materials, reducing environmental impact and improving mechanical performance in composite production. In this study, Cedrus libani A.Rich. natural fibers obtained from needle leaves were subjected to multi-stage extraction and characterization, and their mechanical performance under freeze-thaw conditions in cement-based composites was investigated. The wax layer on the fiber surface was removed by hot water extraction and alkaline treatment, and SEM analysis showed increased surface roughness. EDS results showed that Ca content increased on the fiber surface after processing, and a hybrid interface formed from the organic structure. Specimens produced at different fiber/cement ratios were exposed to 25 and 50 freeze-thaw cycles. The results revealed that compressive strength, unit weight, UPV, and dynamic elastic modulus increased as the matrix phase increased. As the freeze-thaw cycles progressed, strength loss was observed in all series; however, specimens with dense matrix structures exhibited higher performance. The crack-bridging effect of the fibers supported ductile behavior in tensile strength, especially in flexural and splitting tensile strength, and controlled the fracture mechanism. The findings suggest that by optimizing the natural fiber-matrix interaction, biobased cementitious composites that are more resilient to environmental influences can be developed.

Keywords

• Extraction
• Characterization
• Cementitious Composites
• Natural Fiber
• Mechanical Performance
• Freeze-thaw

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