Method of upgrading existing nylon fibers and use of same for reinforcement of cementitious composites

Abstract

A method for upgrading existing nylon fibers comprising the steps of (a) impregnating the existing nylon fibers with a chemical for obtaining impregnated nylon fibers; (b) drawing the impregnated nylon fibers for obtaining drawn nylon fibers; and (c) drying the drawn nylon fibers for obtaining upgraded nylon fibers. An upgraded nylon fiber, derived from an existing nylon fiber by the method. A nylon fiber reinforced hardened cementitious composite comprising a hardened cementitious matrix, the cementitious matrix including staples of textile or non-textile (technical) upgraded nylon fibers. In both cases the fibers are preferably upgraded using the method. A method for manufacturing a nylon fiber reinforced hardened cementitious composite. The method comprising the steps of (a) preparing a mix including a cementitious material, staples of upgraded nylon fibers and/or textile nylon fibers and an activating material (e.g., water) for activating said cementitious material to form a hardened cementitious matrix; (b) placing the mix; and (c) allowing the mix to harden.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.