Abstract
The influence of calcined nanoclay (CNC) and chemical treatment on the microstructure and mechanical properties of treated hemp fabric-reinforced cement nanocomposites has been investigated. The optimum hemp fabric content for these nanocomposites is 6.9 wt% (i.e. 6 fabric layers). Alkali-treated hemp fabric-reinforced cement composites exhibit the highest flexural strength when compared to their non-treated counterparts. In addition, mechanical properties are improved as a result of CNC addition. An optimum replacement of ordinary Portland cement with 1 wt% CNC is observed through reduced porosity and increased density, flexural strength and fracture toughness in treated hemp fabric-reinforced nanocomposite. It is shown that CNC behaves not only as a filler to improve the microstructure, but also as the activator to facilitate the pozzolanic reaction and thus improved the adhesion between the treated hemp fabric and the matrix. Crown Copyright (C) 2015 Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.