As featured in the November 29, 2021 Research and Innovation Newsletter: Can chitosan, a natural nitrogen-based biopolymer derived from shrimp shells, increase the durability and strength of concrete?
Brief Project Description: This research examines improving the technique of reinforcing concrete with dispersed fibers by having the fibers shrink axially during and after curing of the concrete to produce a dispersed multi-axial post-tensioned state. Such reinforcing may increase the crack resistance and durability of the concrete. Preliminary benchtop testing with natural chitosan polymer fibers have confirmed the viability of the technique, where certain configurations show significant strengthening with the shrinking fibers. Results from freeze-thaw durability testing with chitosan fibers and load testing of prestressing steel rings based on dissolution of water-soluble polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) slugs are presented.
Poster: 
Fact Sheet Video Other Q&A
Presenter: Diarmuid Gregory, UVM
2019 Symposium Fact Sheet Poster