Title:
Using Nature-Inspired Patterns to Enhance Flexural Performance of Architected Polymer Reinforced Cementitious Composite
Author(s):
Namakiaraghi
Publication:
Web Session
Volume:
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
Keywords:
DOI:
Date:
11/3/2024
Abstract:
Over millions of years of evolution, living organisms have developed specific architectural elements with unique geometries, such as cellular and hollow structures in plants, to enhance the mechanical properties of their structures. Integrating these nature-inspired architectures, which offer distinct mechanical advantages, into the layout of concrete reinforcement has the potential to enhance mechanical responses and optimize mass in reinforced concrete. Moreover, it can strengthen the bond between the reinforcement and the matrix by increasing the contact area between these components. This research aims to explore the potential improvement in the mechanical properties of reinforced cement-based materials by introducing nature-inspired architected polymeric reinforcements. Polymeric 3D-printed elements, featuring various nature-inspired architectures like cellular and hollow structures, were created as reinforcements for a cement-based matrix and embedded in mortar beams. The design of each architected element maintained a constant reinforcement ratio, determined based on the experimental material properties of the 3D-printed polymer. The flexural behavior of these mortar beams was examined through 3-point bending tests, assessing parameters such as maximum load capacity, modulus of rupture, deflection, toughness, and fracture propagation patterns. The results indicate that the incorporation of nature-inspired architectures with advanced mechanical characteristics into the reinforcement design enhances the flexural behavior of cement-based materials and can be further fine-tuned to meet specific mechanical requirements.