Mechanical and physical properties of a cement matrix through the recycling of thermoset composites

Today, large quantities of thermoset composite materials based on unsaturated polyester and glass fibres are used in wide range of applications such as automotive production and building construction. With the increased use of these materials, recycling at the end of their life cycle has become more difficult. This paper focuses on the incorporation of the sub-product materials based on the fibres and powders as used in the reinforcement of a cement matrix. The mechanical and physical properties of waste fibre and powder reinforced concrete (WFPRC) were investigated after optimising the composite. Regarding mechanical properties, the study focused on the effect of the volume of fibres and powders on the flexural and compressive strength and toughness on the flexural strength. Regarding physical properties, the porosity, orientation and distribution of fibres in a cement matrix were investigated. The results show that the compressive strength decreased with increases in the concentrations of fibres and powders. However, the flexural strength of WFPRC increased when both fibres and powders were added to mixture M2. It was also observed that concrete reinforced with both fibre and powder is superior in terms of load capacity and ductility than a composite reinforced only with fibre or powder. Finally, the distribution and orientation of fibres in the cement matrix and the porosity of the matrix are discussed.