Preparation of a novel superabsorbent fiber–cement composite and evaluation of its self-healing performance

Cracking of cement-based materials is a critical problem that inhibits the safe operation of structures. In this study, polyvinyl alcohol fibers were used as raw materials to prepare superabsorbent fibers by surface hydrophilic modification. The physical and chemical properties, such as super water absorption and high water retention, of the modified fibers were investigated, and their water absorption mechanism was analysed by conducting a microstructure test. The superabsorbent fiber was selected by comparing the water absorption and retention rates, and was added to cement-based materials to achieve self-healing of cracks. The microscopic mechanism of the effect of the superabsorbent fiber on the self-healing performance of cement-based materials was systematically analysed, confirming the potential of the superabsorbent fibers to realise the self-healing of cement-based materials. Owing to the favourable self-healing performance of superabsorbent fibers, it has broad prospects in civil engineering. • Superabsorbent fibres were prepared by the hydrophilic modification of PVA fibres. • Superabsorbent fibre has a water absorption and retention rates of 74.1 and 93%. • The effects of PVA and super-absorbent fibres on self-healing were studied. • The cement mixed with novel fibre had better self-healing performance. • The optimal superabsorbent fibre content was 0.2% to maximise compressive strength recovery.