Microstructure evolution of MgO based composites reinforced with lignocellulose and regenerated textile fibers under accelerated carbonization

Research Overview: A study published in Volume 133 of the Journal of Building Engineering (December 1, 2026) focuses on the microstructural evolution of MgO based composites reinforced with lignocellulosic fibers and regenerated textile fibers under accelerated carbonization conditions. The authors are Adriano Galv ã o Souza Azevedo, Katheryn Cecilia Pallares C ó rdoba, Juan Camilo Adrada Molano, and Holmer Savastano Junior. This study uses MgO based cementitious system as the matrix, introduces lignocellulosic fibers and regenerated textile fibers as reinforcing phases, and observes the changes in the internal microstructure of the material through accelerated carbonization tests. The research belongs to the field of building materials, which combines basic and applied work, with a focus on the structural stability of fiber-reinforced low-carbon cementitious composites in a carbonized environment.

Cross disciplinary issues between carbonization and fiber reinforcement

MgO based cementitious materials are considered to have low-carbon potential due to their lower firing temperature. However, during service, they undergo carbonization reactions with carbon dioxide in the air, generating carbonates and changing the pore structure and volume stability of the matrix.

. When plant derived lignocellulosic fibers or regenerated textile fibers are introduced into the matrix, the carbonization process not only affects the matrix itself, but also acts on the interface area between the fibers and the matrix, thereby affecting the mechanical properties and long-term durability of the composite material. Accelerated carbonation test is a commonly used method in durability research of building materials. By accelerating the reaction process in a controlled high concentration carbon dioxide environment, researchers can observe the evolution trend of the material’s microstructure in a relatively short period of time. This study uses this method to analyze the influence of fiber type on the carbonization behavior of MgO based composite materials.

Significance for the polymer additive industry

Although the research focuses on MgO based cementitious composites, the revealed logic of carbonization fiber interface interaction has reference value for the application of polymer additives in building and home decoration materials.

. In PVC profiles, pipes, and exterior wall decorative components, long-term exposure to outdoor environments will simultaneously face the effects of ultraviolet radiation, humidity, carbon dioxide, and acidic gases. The chemical stability of the material surface and shallow layers directly determines the service life of the product. To cope with such aging stress, antioxidants are usually added to the formula to suppress oxidative degradation during processing and use, and combined with light stabilizers to slow down UV induced chain breakage and discoloration, thereby achieving the goal of weather stability. This study suggests that the interface region between fiber-reinforced and porous matrix is often a sensitive site to environmental factors. Similarly, in architectural coatings, sealants, and insulation materials, the interface between fillers, fibers, and polymer matrices is also a preferred pathway for moisture, gas permeation, and aging. The design of additive systems needs to focus on the stability of the interface region, rather than just the performance indicators of the matrix itself. For building materials, weather resistance, carbonation stability, and interface compatibility together form the foundation of long-term service performance. In addition, the application of recycled textile fibers and lignocellulosic fibers in building materials reflects the industry’s attention to biobased and recycled raw materials. The introduction of such fibers can alter the pore structure and alkaline environment of composite materials, thereby affecting the compatibility between the matrix and fibers. In polymer based building materials, similar issues also exist: the moisture absorption, particle size distribution, and surface chemistry of natural fibers or recycled fillers can affect the dispersion and effectiveness of additives in the system. Therefore, the formulation of additives needs to be considered in conjunction with the filler system to achieve stable weather resistance.

Research value and follow-up attention

This study provides experimental observations on the microstructure evolution of MgO based fiber-reinforced composite materials under accelerated carbonization conditions, supplementing data for the durability evaluation of low-carbon cementitious materials.

. For the polymer additive industry, its value lies in indicating that the long-term performance of building materials depends on the synergistic evolution of the matrix, reinforcement phase, and interface under environmental conditions. In the design of weather resistant systems for PVC profiles, waterproof coatings, sealants, and other products, the selection and ratio of antioxidants and light stabilizers should be comprehensively evaluated based on the actual carbonization, humid, hot, and radiation environments in which the materials are located. Source: Journal of Building Engineering, Volume 133, 1 December 2026.

Information source:Microstructural evolution of MgO-based composites reinforced with lignocellulosic and recycled textile fibers under accelerated carbonation， Organized by Herun Chemical.