Nanofiber-coated natural fibers for mechanical and durability improvement of sustainable cementitious systems.

A hybrid reinforcement system based on rhubarb fiber (RF) and dendritic fibrous nanosilica (DFNS) was developed and incorporated into foamed concrete to examine its influence on structural performance. The study focuses on both mechanical properties and durability under impact loading as well as chemically aggressive exposure conditions. Rhubarb fiber, a sustainable cellulose rich material, was chemically modified using NaOH treatment and subsequently functionalized with DFNS to enhance its interfacial bonding and dispersion within the cement matrix. Structural and chemical transformations of the modified fiber were characterized using TGA, FTIR, and SEM analyses. The experimental findings indicate that incorporating the RF/DFNS hybrid reinforcement markedly enhances the impact resistance and energy dissipation capacity of the composite, improves its resistance to crack propagation, increases thermal stability, and effectively reduces shrinkage related deterioration. Furthermore, the synergistic effects of the bio based fiber and nanostructured DFNS contribute to enhanced impact resistance and extended service life of foamed concrete, promoting an eco friendly approach to advanced construction material design. These findings highlight the promise of integrating natural fibers with nanomaterials to develop sustainable, high performance cementitious systems. The hybrid reinforcement system enhanced both the mechanical strength and durability of the foamed concrete. In addition, the incorporation of bio based rhubarb fibers provides a potential pathway toward more sustainable reinforcement strategies, particularly through the use of renewable lignocellulosic resources. However, the overall environmental benefits of the RF/DFNS system require further verification through quantitative life cycle assessment.