The influence of cellulose microcrystals and nanofibrils in XSBR polymers on the mechanical properties of jute textile-reinforced cementitious composites

This research aimed to enhance the impregnation of carboxylate styrene butadiene rubber (XSBR) polymer on jute yarns, thereby improving the mechanical properties of textile-reinforced cementitious composite (TRCC). An experimental investigation on the use of cellulose microcrystals and nanofibrils as additives to XSBR admixture was conducted. Four different solutions containing XSBR are presented, and the interactions between each solution and the fibers, as well as the treated fiber–matrix interactions, were analyzed. For these interaction analyses, the influence of XSBR impregnation was assessed using scanning electron microscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. The mechanical properties of both non-treated and treated jute fibers were evaluated through direct tensile tests, and the bond between treated and non-treated jute yarns and the cementitious matrix was assessed through pull-out tests. The results demonstrate a significant enhancement not only in the mechanical behavior of the treated fibers but also in the overall performance of the TRCC.