The tensile strength of concrete can be increased by as much as 30% using, what they call, "cellulose nanocrystals," say researchers at Purdue University. These nanocrystals or CNCs could be refined from the byproducts of renewable resources.
The CNCs increase the hydration of cement particles in concrete mixtures. With greater hydration, more concrete can cure and the structure of the concrete is altered, thus strengthening it.
Read more at Purdue University News.
Cellulose nanocrystals as seen in an electron microscope.
(Purdue Life Sciences Microscopy Center)
