Cellulose is a natural substance which is mainly derived from wood pulp. It is also the most abundant organic polymer known to us. Cellulose fiber is a fiber made from cellulose and has numerous useful applications in different industries, including construction. Fibers of cellulose are highly versatile, and so raw wood cellulose is widely used as a renewable component in various products to make them more sustainable.
This is very important today as increasing numbers of industries are looking for non-hazardous eco-friendly raw materials to create truly sustainable products.
In this article, we will see how cellulose fibers have become a sustainable solution for construction industry today.
Use of Cellulose Fibers in Construction
In the construction industry, cellulose fibers are crucial to creating several types of important construction compounds and building materials. For instance, tile adhesives and dry mix mortars usually have a significant number of cellulose fibers as one of the raw materials used for production.
Below are the main ways that cellulose fiber is used in the construction industry as a sustainable construction solution –
Gypsum Products
Cellulose fibers are widely used to manufacture gypsum-based products. The reason behind the use of cellulose fibers in gypsum is that the fibers can improve the vertical flow resistance and enhance uniformity of plastering products, which makes the plastering process easier and more efficient. It also enhances fluidity and mobility to improve work efficiency.
It has higher water retention which extends the duration of malleability of the concrete or mortar, as well as gives it higher mechanical strength during the hardening process.
Besides, it controls air penetration to avoid small cracks which gives a smooth, even surface finish to the concrete.
Ceramic Tile Adhesives
Cellulose-based fibers also make concrete easier to mix by preventing it from clumping together. This not only improves the concrete’s workability, but also reduces the overall cost of construction. Besides, cellulose fiber products extend the curing time of concrete, which improves the concrete’s adhesive properties, and enhances the overall work efficiency.
Self-Leveling Compounds
Cellulose-fiber induced concrete has better viscosity and is often used as an anti-precipitation component during construction. This gives it enhanced pumpability and increased mobility which improves the efficiency of paved floors. In addition, these fibers also help with enhanced water retention, which significantly reduces the risk of shrinkage and cracks from developing on the concrete surface.
Joint Fillers
Cellulose fibers are excellent at retaining water for a longer time in the concrete mix. This can extend the cooling time and improve the work efficiency of the construction project. These fibers make the construction mix highly lubricated which also makes construction processes smoother and easier.
These construction compounds help to improve the surface aesthetics of concrete by preventing shrinkage and enhancing resistance to cracking. Besides this, these construction chemicals also enhance the adhesion of the bonding surface, thus allowing for a smooth and uniform surface texture after the job is completed.
Conclusion
Cellulose fibers are a multifunctional ingredient in various construction chemicals. Their most prominent use is in joint fillers, self-leveling compounds, tile adhesives, and in various gypsum products used in the construction industry. For stronger buildings and the most sustainable solutions in construction, it is highly recommended to buy Cellulose Fiber from renowned brands like Sakshi Chem Sciences Pvt Ltd.