Multiphase characterization of Bitumen-Based Carbon Fibers (BBCF) and demonstrating its use in producing “crack-free” cement concrete

The main focus of the proposed project is to develop Carbon Fiber Reinforced Concrete (CFRC) that could be used as a repair material or a new innovative material in the construction industry to enhance the life span of existing or new civil structures. Sustainability is at the core of this proposed project. The proposed project is sustainable as it promotes the use of carbon fibers produced from the bitumen industry (aligned with Alberta Innovates’ Mission of BBC). Second, the use of fibers in cement concrete can reduce/eliminate cracking increasing the expected service life of the structures where this material is used. This allows distributing the embodied CO2 owing to use of the material over more number of years and further reducing the frequency of repairs or reconstruction.