Performance Of Lightweight Fiber Reinforced Cement Composites

Fiber reinforced cement composites are increasingly becoming popular for use as cladding panels for residential and commercial construction. Most of the research so far has been to improve strength and durability of these composites. While strength and durability are important, any reduction in self-weight, especially for tall structures, significantly reduces the cost of the structure. In this investigation lightweight fiber reinforced cement composites were developed. Composites with 2% Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) fibers and several levels of lightweight aggregate perlite, were cast and tested for flexural performance (ASTM C 947) in two different testing conditions: air-dry and saturated. The data obtained through this comprehensive experimental program was analyzed to characterize the performance of lightweight composites. The results indicate that significant reductions in density (50%) of the composite could be achieved through the use of perlite, without compromising the performance. Sandwich panels, representative of typical construction, were also developed and tested.