Use of Latex in Cellulose Fibers and Replacement With Metacaulim for Application in Composites With Cement Matrix

Abstract

In this work, it was studied the addition of latex in cellulose pulps in cement matrices. It is known that the alkalinity of the matrix degrades the fiber. Therefore, in addition of latex in fiber, the alkalinity of the matrix was reduced by replacing part of the cement with metakaolin. The influence of the analyzed parameters (percentage of cellulose, the percentage of latex and percentage of metakaolin) on the mechanical and physical properties of the cement composites was evaluated through an experimental planning. From this planning, it was possible to develop a model of equations that optimized the results of the modulus of rupture and water absorption. Flexural strength and water absorption tests were made on composites at 28 days of age. It was observed that the best conditions analyzed to maximize the value of the rupture modulus was the combinations of the values of cellulose in 8.5%, of latex in the value of 0.249% and of metakaolin in the central point (19%), resulting in the value for rupture modulus of 14.5 MPa. Regarding the absorption, it was observed that only the cellulose variable was significant for this response. Higher concentrations of cellulose resulted in higher values for percentage of absorption, due to the hydrophilicity of the natural fiber.