High-performance Nano-Modified Cementitious Composites Comprising Multi-Scale Fibres for Concrete Flatwork

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Concrete flatwork (e.g. pavements, bridge decks) infrastructure is an essential component for continued economic growth of Canadian cities. Performance BioFilaments (BF, Canadian producer for nano-fibrillated cellulose [NFC]) and City of Winnipeg (COW; municipality/end user) are collaborating with the University of Manitoba (UM) to improve the performance of concrete flatwork infrastructure and extend service life, minimize cycles of repair and reduce life-cycle costs. The specific objective of the project is to develop innovative high-performance fiber reinforced cementitious composites (FRCC) comprising high-volume slag (industrial waste by-product), bio-based nanomaterials (NFC, nano-crystalline cellulose: NCC) and novel fibers (basalt fiber pellets: BFP). The project will provide fundamental data on the mechanical properties and durability of FRCC, as well as its compatibility with concrete used in pavements and bridges. This is needed to qualify these novel composites for use as an overlay or repair system in future field studies for concrete flatwork (long-term objective). Success of NFC as nano-reinforcement may create additional business opportunities for BF in the market of high-performance FRCC in Canada and elsewhere. The proposed project will increase confidence in using Canadian products (slag/nanomaterials/fibers) to produce specialty concrete. The project will be followed by field demonstration trials coordinated by COW with UM, BF, concrete producers, consulting firms and contractors to facilitate technology transfer to the construction sector. With wider dissemination of knowledge through national workshops/conferences, this initiative will reflect positively on the sustainable development of Canadian infrastructure by encouraging more implementation of novel, high-performance and cost-efficient building materials in vital transportation infrastructure.