Effects of Micro and Nano Scale Sugarcane Bagasse Cellulose Fibers on Cement Based Materials

Abstract:

With a growing global focus on sustainability, the construction industry is steadily replacing conventional materials with environmentally friendly alternatives. Plant-based fibers, particularly cellulose fibers, are increasingly considered as reinforcement in cement-based materials due to their favorable mechanical properties and renewable origin. Cement-based materials, despite their strength, are prone to porosity and moisture absorption, which compromise long-term durability. To address these challenges while promoting sustainable material use, this study investigates the effects of micro and nanoscale cellulose fibers extracted from sugarcane bagasse on the performance of cement-based materials. Cellulose fibers were obtained through a chemo-mechanical process and surface-modified to achieve hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties. The produced fibers were characterized using SEM and XRD, confirming predominantly amorphous structures and smooth, rod-like morphologies Mortar samples with hydrophobic cellulose microfibers (0.5% and 1%) and cement paste samples with hydrophilic cellulose nanofibers (0.1, 0.25, 0.5 and 1%) were prepared and tested for fresh and hardened properties. Results demonstrated that hydrophobic cellulose microfibers improved mortar workability by up to 13.6% and reduced water absorption by 31.5%, while also enhancing compressive strength (4.7% increase) and density (3.8% increase) at 0.5% dosage. However, higher fiber content (1%) led to entrapped air voids, reducing strength and density. In cement paste, hydrophilic cellulose nanofibers exhibited dual behavior: small dosages had negligible effect, 0.5% significantly improved density (4.9% increase) and compressive strength (38–40 MPa at 7–14 days), while higher dosages caused strength reduction and increased absorption due to fiber agglomeration. Overall, 0.5% fiber incorporation at both scales provided the optimal balance of strength, durability, and workability.

• Periodical: Construction Technologies and Architecture (Volume 23)
• Pages: 41-55
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/p-rieH8O
• Online since: May 2026
• Authors: Alina Fatima*, Wasiullah Jagirani, Farnaz Batool, Ayman Asghar, Sadia Mehmood
• Keywords: Cellulose Microfibers, Cellulose Nanofibers, Cement Mortar, Cement Paste, Hydrophilic Fibers, Hydrophobic Fibers, Sugarcane Bagasse

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