Fibers

13 pages, 2663 KB

Open AccessArticle

Measuring the Heat of Wetting of Clothing Fabrics by Isothermal Calorimetry

by Faisal Abedin and Emiel DenHartog

Fibers 2026, 14(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/fib14010015 - 20 Jan 2026

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The interaction between moisture and textile materials plays a critical role in transient thermal comfort, particularly through the exothermic heat released during wetting. While the heat of wetting has been extensively characterized at the fiber level, its behavior in finished fabrics, where structure, [...] Read more.

The interaction between moisture and textile materials plays a critical role in transient thermal comfort, particularly through the exothermic heat released during wetting. While the heat of wetting has been extensively characterized at the fiber level, its behavior in finished fabrics, where structure, porosity, and air gaps influence moisture uptake, remains poorly understood. This study quantifies the heat of wetting of clothing fabrics using a TAM Air isothermal microcalorimeter under controlled isothermal conditions (23 °C). Five fabric types representing different fiber chemistries (Merino wool, cotton, viscose, and polyester) were evaluated in both folded and dissected forms to assess the influence of sampling methods. Wool fabrics exhibited the highest heat release, followed by viscose and cotton, whereas polyester showed negligible exothermic response due to its non-hygroscopic nature. Overall, fabric-level heat of wetting values were lower and more variable than the corresponding fiber-level values reported in the literature, reflecting the combined effects of fabric structure, air permeability, surface hydrophilicity, and sampling uniformity. These findings demonstrate the feasibility and limitations of isothermal microcalorimetry for characterizing moisture–fabric interactions and highlight the need for improved sampling and measurement protocols to more accurately capture fabric-level sorption heat relevant to clothing comfort. Full article

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24 pages, 1959 KB

Open AccessReview

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Botanical Aspects, Multisectoral Applications, and Valorization of Industrial Waste for the Recovery of Natural Fiber in a Circular Economy Perspective

by Luigi Madeo, Anastasia Macario, Federica Napoli and Pierantonio De Luca

Fibers 2026, 14(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/fib14010014 - 19 Jan 2026

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Abstract

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is a perennial herb traditionally valued for its aromatic and therapeutic properties. In recent years, however, growing attention has shifted toward the technical and environmental potential of the plant’s industrial by-products, particularly the fibrous material left after extraction. [...] Read more.

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is a perennial herb traditionally valued for its aromatic and therapeutic properties. In recent years, however, growing attention has shifted toward the technical and environmental potential of the plant’s industrial by-products, particularly the fibrous material left after extraction. This review integrates botanical knowledge with engineering and industrial perspectives, highlighting the role of licorice fiber in advancing sustainable innovation. The natural fiber obtained from licorice roots exhibits notable physical and mechanical qualities, including lightness, biodegradability, and compatibility with bio-based polymer matrices. These attributes make it a promising candidate for biocomposites used in green building and other sectors of the circular economy. Developing efficient recovery processes requires collaboration across disciplines, combining expertise in plant science, materials engineering, and industrial technology. The article also examines the economic and regulatory context driving the transition toward more circular and traceable production models. Increasing interest from companies, research institutions, and public bodies in valorizing licorice fiber and its derivatives is opening new market opportunities. Potential applications extend to agroindustry, eco-friendly cosmetics, bioeconomy, and sustainable construction. By linking botanical insights with innovative waste management strategies, licorice emerges as a resource capable of supporting integrated, competitive, and environmentally responsible industrial practices. Full article

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30 pages, 6014 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Study into Aspect Ratio and the Influence of Platen Restraint on the Compressive Strength of Jute Fibre-Reinforced Compressed Earth Composites

by Jack Andrew Cottrell, Muhammad Ali, D. Brett Martinson and D. Lavorato

Fibers 2026, 14(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/fib14010013 - 16 Jan 2026

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Abstract

This study investigates the behaviour of Compressed Earth Cylinders (CECs) and Compressed Earth Blocks (CEBs) during direct compression tests and examines the influence of aspect ratio and the effects of platen restraint. The experimental investigation utilises two soil types and examines the impact [...] Read more.

This study investigates the behaviour of Compressed Earth Cylinders (CECs) and Compressed Earth Blocks (CEBs) during direct compression tests and examines the influence of aspect ratio and the effects of platen restraint. The experimental investigation utilises two soil types and examines the impact of jute fibre reinforcement on the failure mechanism of CECs with aspect ratios ranging from 0.50 to 2.00. Through experimental analysis and numerical modelling, the effects of platen restraint are examined, and a novel hypothesis of intersecting cones is presented. The results show that specimens with a lower aspect ratio exhibited higher compressive strength due to confinement caused by platen restraint. Moreover, this research has derived new aspect ratio correction factors that enable conversion from Apparent Compressive Strength (ACS) to Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) of unstabilised and fibre-reinforced CECs. The experimental results indicate that the derived conversion factor of 0.861 allows for the prediction of CEB strength from CEC specimens with an accuracy of 2.7%. Furthermore, the addition of jute fibres at a 0.25% dosage increased the Apparent Compressive Strength across all aspect ratios. The outcome of this research recommends a standard approach to the application of aspect ratio correction factors when interpreting and reporting the compressive strength of CECs and CEBs. Full article

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24 pages, 3830 KB

Open AccessArticle

Synthesis and Structural and Electrochemical Characterization of Carbon Fiber/MnO₂ Composites for Hydrogen Storage and Electrochemical Sensing

by Loukia Plakia, Adamantia Zourou, Maria Zografaki, Evangelia Vouvoudi, Dimitrios Gavril, Konstantinos V. Kordatos, Nikos G. Tsierkezos and Ioannis Kartsonakis

Fibers 2026, 14(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/fib14010012 - 14 Jan 2026

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Abstract

Hydrogen, as an alternative energy carrier, presents significant prospects for the transition to more environmentally friendly energy solutions. However, its efficient and safe storage remains a challenge, as materials with high adsorbent capacity and long-term storage capability are required. This study focuses on [...] Read more.

Hydrogen, as an alternative energy carrier, presents significant prospects for the transition to more environmentally friendly energy solutions. However, its efficient and safe storage remains a challenge, as materials with high adsorbent capacity and long-term storage capability are required. This study focuses on the synthesis and characterization of a composite material comprising carbon fiber and manganese dioxide (MnO₂/CFs), for the purpose of hydrogen storage. Carbon fiber was chosen as the basis for the composition of the composite material due to its large active surface area and its excellent mechanical, thermal, and electrochemical properties. The deposition of MnO₂ on the surface of carbon fibers took place through two different synthetic pathways: electrochemical deposition and chemical synthesis under different conditions. The electrochemical method enabled the production of a greater amount of oxide with optimized structural and chemical properties, whereas the chemical method was simpler but required more time to achieve comparable or lower-capacity performance. Elemental analysis of the electrochemically produced composites showcased an average of 40.5 ± 0.05 wt% Mn presence, which is an indicator of the quantity of MnO₂ on the surface responsible for hydrogen storage, while the chemically produced composites showcased an average of 7.6 ± 0.05 wt% Mn presence. Manganese oxide’s high specific capacity and reversible redox reaction participation make it suitable for hydrogen storage applications. The obtained results of the hydrogenated samples through physicochemical characterization indicated the formation of the MnOOH intermediate. Regarding these findings it may be remarked that carbon fiber/MnO₂ composites are promising candidates for hydrogen storage technologies. Finally, the fabricated carbon fiber/MnO₂ composites were applied successfully as working electrodes for analysis of the [Fe(CN)₆]^3−/4− redox system in aqueous KCl solutions. Full article

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19 pages, 5487 KB

Open AccessReview

Fluoro-Edenite from Biancavilla (Sicily, Italy): A Comprehensive Review and New Perspectives on a Fibrous Amphibole of Geological and Health Concern

by Valeria Indelicato, Roberto Visalli, Maria Rita Pinizzotto, Carmelo Cantaro, Rosolino Cirrincione, Alberto Pistorio, Claudia Ricchiuti and Rosalda Punturo

Fibers 2026, 14(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/fib14010011 - 13 Jan 2026

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Abstract

The present review paper focuses on the peculiar environmental and health implications of fibrous amphibole “fluoro-edenite”, a new mineral first reported in Biancavilla (Etna Mount, Sicily, Italy). Its presence has been linked to an unusually high incidence of malignant pleural mesothelioma, as seen [...] Read more.

The present review paper focuses on the peculiar environmental and health implications of fibrous amphibole “fluoro-edenite”, a new mineral first reported in Biancavilla (Etna Mount, Sicily, Italy). Its presence has been linked to an unusually high incidence of malignant pleural mesothelioma, as seen from national surveys during 1988–1997, marking the first case study of natural occurrence of fibrous amphibole in a volcanic context. Despite remediation efforts since the cessation of quarrying activities at the “Il Calvario” quarry, the risk of fiber exposure may extend beyond urban areas to surrounding soils and volcanic formation, not fully characterized yet. This review synthesizes relevant existing literature on mineralogical and chemical features of fluoro-edenite, while also enriching current understanding with new observations from optical microscopy, stereomicroscopy, and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Our analyses reveal the presence of fluoro-edenite amphibole not only in the altered samples but, significantly, within the massive rock samples. This finding expands its known distribution and offers initial consideration on public health implications related to massive lava rock, which crops out. This study highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring, detailed geological surveys, and further research into fiber occurrences and distribution in the volcanic systems, of which Mt. Etna represents the first case of natural occurrences, in order to fully assess their impact on public health. Full article

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13 pages, 1183 KB

Open AccessArticle

Valorization of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) as an Unexploited Source of Natural Insoluble Dietary Fiber Through Integrated Cultivation Conditions and Freeze-Drying Optimization

by Augustina Sandina Tronac, Simona Marcu Spinu, Mihaela Dragoi Cudalbeanu, Carmen Laura Cimpeanu and Alina Ortan

Fibers 2026, 14(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/fib14010010 - 12 Jan 2026

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Abstract

Human health is profoundly influenced by external factors, with stress being a primary contributor. In this context, the digestive system is particularly susceptible. The prevalence of diseases affecting the small intestine and colon is increasing. Consequently, insoluble plant fibers, such as cellulose and [...] Read more.

Human health is profoundly influenced by external factors, with stress being a primary contributor. In this context, the digestive system is particularly susceptible. The prevalence of diseases affecting the small intestine and colon is increasing. Consequently, insoluble plant fibers, such as cellulose and hemicellulose, play a crucial role in promoting intestinal transit and maintaining colon health. Lettuce is a widely consumed leafy vegetable with high nutritional value and has been intensively studied through hydroponic cultivation. This study aims to optimize the cultivation conditions and freeze-drying process of Lugano and Carmesi lettuce varieties (Lactuca sativa L.) by identifying the optimal growth conditions, freeze-drying duration, and sample surface area in order to achieve an optimal percentage of insoluble fibers. Carmesi and Lugano varieties were selected based on their contrasting growth characteristics and leaf morphology, allowing to assess whether treatments and processing conditions have consistent effects on different types of lettuce. The optimal freeze-drying parameters were determined to include a 48 h freeze-drying period, a maximum sample surface area of 144 cm², and growth under combined conditions of supplementary oxygenation and LED light exposure. The optimal fiber composition, cellulose (21.61%), hemicellulose (11.84%) and lignin (1.36%), was found for the Lugano variety, which exhibited lower lignin and higher cellulose contents than the Carmesi variety. The quantification of hemicellulose, cellulose and lignin was performed using the well-known NDF, ADF and ADL methods. Therefore, optimized freeze-dried lettuce powder, particularly from the Lugano variety, presents a high-value functional ingredient for enriching foods and developing nutritional supplements aimed at digestive health. Full article

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16 pages, 805 KB

Open AccessReview

Highly Porous Cellulose-Based Scaffolds for Hemostatic Devices and Smart Platform Applications: A Systematic Review

by Nikita A. Shutskiy, Aleksandr R. Shevchenko, Ksenia A. Mayorova, Leonid L. Shagrov and Andrey S. Aksenov

Fibers 2026, 14(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/fib14010009 - 5 Jan 2026

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Abstract

A promising application of smart materials based on natural polymers is the potential to solve problems related to hemostasis in cases of severe bleeding caused by injury or surgery. This can be a life-threatening situation. Cellulose and its modified derivatives represent one of [...] Read more.

A promising application of smart materials based on natural polymers is the potential to solve problems related to hemostasis in cases of severe bleeding caused by injury or surgery. This can be a life-threatening situation. Cellulose and its modified derivatives represent one of the most promising sources for creating effective hemostatic systems, as well as for various sensing applications related to disease detection, infection diagnosis, chronic condition monitoring, and blood analysis. The aim of this review was to identify key criteria for the efficiency of cellulose-based gels with hemostatic activity. Experimental studies aimed at evaluating new hemostatic devices were analyzed based on international sources using the PRISMA methodology. A total of 111 publications were identified. Following the identification and screening stages, 20 articles were selected for the final qualitative synthesis. The analyzed publications include experimental studies focused on the development and analysis of highly porous cellulose-based scaffolds in the form of aerogels and cryogels. The type and origin of cellulose, as well as the influence of additional components and synthesis conditions on gel formation, were investigated. Three major groups of key criteria that should be considered when developing new cellulose-based highly porous scaffolds with hemostatic functionality were identified: (I) physicochemical and mechanical properties (pore size distribution, compressive strength, and presence of functional groups); (II) in vitro tests (blood clotting index, red blood cell adhesion rate, hemolysis, cytocompatibility, and antibacterial activity); (III) in vivo hemostatic efficiency (hemostasis time and blood loss) in compliance with the 3Rs policy (replacement, reduction, refinement). The prospects for the development of highly porous cellulose-based scaffolds are not only focused on their hemostatic properties, but also on the development of smart platforms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nanocellulose Hydrogels and Aerogels as Smart Sensing Platforms)

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23 pages, 10089 KB

Open AccessArticle

A New Experimental Framework for Unsupported Drilling of Thin Woven GFRP Laminates

by Razvan Udroiu, Paul Bere, Katarzyna Biruk-Urban and Jerzy Józwik

Fibers 2026, 14(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/fib14010008 - 5 Jan 2026

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Abstract

High-quality drilled holes are critical in thin fabric-reinforced composites used in many industrial applications; however, the influence of woven architecture on drilling performance without a backup plate remains insufficiently defined. This paper introduces the first comprehensive experimental and statistical framework for evaluating unsupported [...] Read more.

High-quality drilled holes are critical in thin fabric-reinforced composites used in many industrial applications; however, the influence of woven architecture on drilling performance without a backup plate remains insufficiently defined. This paper introduces the first comprehensive experimental and statistical framework for evaluating unsupported drilling of thin woven glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) laminates. The framework integrates the effect of support opening width, fiber weight fraction (wf), feed per tooth, and fabric architecture to quantify their combined effects on delamination, cutting forces, and surface roughness. The samples consisted of vacuum mold-pressed GFRP laminates. Drilling tests were conducted on plain and twill-woven plates, and hole quality was evaluated using thrust force, delamination factor, and surface roughness (Sa). A statistical DOE and multifactorial ANOVA were applied to quantify the effects of the main parameters. For plain-woven GFRP, the best results were obtained with a 65 mm support opening width, 45% fiber wf, and 0.04 mm/tooth feed. Plain-woven laminates exhibited lower average surface roughness (Sa ≈ 5.0–6.5 µm) than twill-woven laminates (Sa ≈ 6.0–7.0 µm). The study demonstrates how fabric architecture and drilling parameters jointly influence hole quality in thin GFRP composites, providing practical guidance for manufacturing applications. Full article

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15 pages, 3760 KB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Drying Times in Natural Fiber-Based Mycelium Composites from Empty Fruit Bunches and Kenaf

by Hazman Azhari Abdul Rasid, Hamid Yusoff, Koay Mei Hyie, Fatin Hazwani, Aiman Izmin, Boey Tze Zhou and Farrahnoor Ahmad

Fibers 2026, 14(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/fib14010007 - 1 Jan 2026

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Abstract

Empty fruit bunches (EFBs) and kenaf are two abundant sources of lignocellulosic resource agricultural waste with potential as substrates for mycelium-based composites (MBCs). These composites are lightweight, compostable, low-cost, and suitable for packaging applications. However, their performance is highly dependent on the type [...] Read more.

Empty fruit bunches (EFBs) and kenaf are two abundant sources of lignocellulosic resource agricultural waste with potential as substrates for mycelium-based composites (MBCs). These composites are lightweight, compostable, low-cost, and suitable for packaging applications. However, their performance is highly dependent on the type of lignocellulosic substrate and the processing conditions applied during production. Despite the promising availability of natural fibers, limited research has focused on the drying process that affects the quality of MBCs. This study investigates the effect of different drying times (12, 18, and 24 h) on the physical and mechanical properties of MBCS produced from EFB and kenaf substrates. Following a 20-day incubation period under controlled conditions, the composites were oven-dried and analyzed for mycelial colonization, density measurement, shrinkage, water loss, shore A hardness, impact resistance, and mold growth. The results demonstrated that a drying time of 24 h yielded the best overall performance. Moisture loss (67.00%) and shrinkage (50.70%) increased with longer drying times (24 h), particularly in kenaf-based composites. Extended drying minimized mold contamination and enhanced the structural integrity of the composites. Overall, EFB-based composites achieved the highest Shore A hardness (44.53 HA). These findings show that optimizing the drying time enhances the durability of MBCs, reinforcing their potential as sustainable, biodegradable alternatives to polystyrene and promoting the development of eco-friendly materials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Use of Fibers in Organic and Inorganic Composite Solutions for Structural Strengthening: Advances, Applications, and Challenges)

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17 pages, 4725 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Green Binary Solvent System for the PLA Nanofiber Electrospinning Process: Optimization of Parameters

by Tommaso Pini, Gianluca Ciarleglio, Elisa Toto, Maria Gabriella Santonicola and Marco Valente

Fibers 2026, 14(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/fib14010006 - 29 Dec 2025

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Abstract

Electrospinning of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) commonly relies on toxic organic solvents, which limit its sustainability and biomedical applicability. In this work, a green electrospinning process was developed using dimethyl carbonate (DMC), a biodegradable and low-toxicity solvent, combined with acetone as a volatile co-solvent [...] Read more.

Electrospinning of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) commonly relies on toxic organic solvents, which limit its sustainability and biomedical applicability. In this work, a green electrospinning process was developed using dimethyl carbonate (DMC), a biodegradable and low-toxicity solvent, combined with acetone as a volatile co-solvent to promote efficient jet solidification. Three commercial PLA grades were evaluated for solubility and spinnability, and PLA 4043D was identified as the most suitable for DMC and acetone systems. The electrospinning parameters, including solvent ratio, flow rate, and applied voltage, were systematically optimized to achieve stable jet formation and uniform fiber morphology. Under optimized conditions, the process produced continuous, bead-free nanofibers with a mean diameter of ~1 µm and uniform nanoscale surface porosity resulting from differential solvent evaporation. The resulting fibers were characterized in terms of morphology, structure, thermal behavior, and mechanical performance, confirming increased amorphous content, high porosity (about 78%), and tensile strength of ~3 MPa for the selected electrospinning condition. This study demonstrates that DMC-based solvent systems enable a sustainable and potentially biocompatible route, considering the lower toxicity of the solvents employed, offering a green alternative to conventional toxic processes for the fabrication of medical scaffolds. Full article

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20 pages, 15826 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Sodium Hypophosphite on Copper Deposition and Coating Properties of Carbon Fibers in a Citrate Bath

by Houzhen Liu, Wenzheng Jiang, Shaokai Hu, Guodong Zhang, Weizhuang Yang, Shengzong Ci, Tianrun Yang and Kun Qiao

Fibers 2026, 14(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/fib14010005 - 29 Dec 2025

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Abstract

The extensive application of carbon fibers (CFs) and their composites in aerospace and electronics has established the optimization of their electrical conductivity as a critical research priority. Conventional electrodeposition techniques are limited by CF inherent chemical inertness and low surface energy, which increase [...] Read more.

The extensive application of carbon fibers (CFs) and their composites in aerospace and electronics has established the optimization of their electrical conductivity as a critical research priority. Conventional electrodeposition techniques are limited by CF inherent chemical inertness and low surface energy, which increase the energy barrier for copper deposition, leading to defective coatings and weakened interfacial bonding. This study demonstrated that sodium hypophosphite (NaH₂PO₂) enhances CF copper deposition efficiency through concentration gradient experiments (0–30 g/L), revealing its modulation of deposition kinetics, crystallographic evolution, and interfacial adhesion strength. Electrochemical analysis showed that NaH₂PO₂ accelerates initial copper nucleation by reducing activation energy without forming complexes. Increasing its concentration expanded monofilament diameter from 8.55 to 9.26 μm post-deposition, with copper loading rising 28.89%. XRD analysis identified 20 g/L as the optimum for crystallinity, producing maximal grain size (8.27 nm) and predominant (111) orientation. This structure achieved a conductivity of 1.63 × 10³ S·cm⁻¹ (55.24% enhancement) and improved breaking force from 13.54 to 14.57 cN. Adhesion tests showed that the 20 g/L group maintained stability comparable to the control. These results suggest that 20 g/L is the preferred concentration balancing conductivity enhancement with mechanical stability. This approach offers a novel strategy for fabricating highly conductive CF composites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Fibers)

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2 pages, 351 KB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Golias, E.; Karayannis, C. Effect of C-FRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer) Rope and Sheet Strengthening on the Shear Behavior of RC Beam-Column Joints. Fibers 2025, 13, 113

by Emmanouil Golias and Chris Karayannis

Fibers 2026, 14(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/fib14010004 - 24 Dec 2025

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Abstract

In the original publication [...] Full article

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17 pages, 8386 KB

Open AccessArticle

Interferometric Optical Fiber Sensor for Acoustic Emission Detection: Experimental Evaluation and Configuration Optimization

by Le Quang Trung, Yuki Takahashi, Motoki Haruta, Shinji Okazaki and Naoya Kasai

Fibers 2026, 14(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/fib14010003 - 23 Dec 2025

Viewed by 530

Abstract

This study presents the experimental optimization of an interferometric optical fiber sensor for acoustic emission (AE) detection. The system employs a simple and low-cost structure composed of sensing and reference fibers, enabling interference-based detection without specialized components such as fiber Bragg gratings or [...] Read more.

This study presents the experimental optimization of an interferometric optical fiber sensor for acoustic emission (AE) detection. The system employs a simple and low-cost structure composed of sensing and reference fibers, enabling interference-based detection without specialized components such as fiber Bragg gratings or Fabry–Perot cavities. A narrowband laser source was selected through comparative experiments for its superior stability and interference performance. The influence of fiber-loop parameters, including the number of turns and the optical-path intensity ratio, was systematically evaluated to clarify their effects on AE sensitivity and frequency response. The experimental results demonstrate that detection performance and bandwidth can be flexibly tuned by optimizing the loop configuration. Finally, the sensor was validated using a tensile test, successfully detecting AE signals in the range of 20 kHz to 1 MHz. The proposed system provides a robust, EMI-resistant, and cost-effective interferometric solution for AE monitoring. Full article

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17 pages, 2662 KB

Open AccessArticle

Adapting Flax Production to Climate Change: Can a Spring Variety Be Grown in Winter?

by Adèle Hue, Coralie Buffet, Lèna Brionne, Johnny Beaugrand, Pierre D’Arras, Alain Bourmaud and Christophe Baley

Fibers 2026, 14(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/fib14010002 - 19 Dec 2025

Viewed by 637

Abstract

Along the French-English Channel coast, fibre flax is traditionally cultivated in spring during a short window from March to July. However, increasingly frequent and severe spring droughts, driven by climate change, cast doubt on the sustainability of this practice. One possible adaptation, inspired [...] Read more.

Along the French-English Channel coast, fibre flax is traditionally cultivated in spring during a short window from March to July. However, increasingly frequent and severe spring droughts, driven by climate change, cast doubt on the sustainability of this practice. One possible adaptation, inspired by the winter cultivation of oilseed flax and tested over several years, involves extending the growing cycle by cultivating fibre flax in winter. In this system, seeds are sown in autumn, and the crop is harvested in early June. After four consecutive years of monitoring yield and fibre mechanical properties, a selected spring flax variety was grown both in winter 2022/2023 and in spring 2023 for direct comparison. This period included a mild winter favourable for winter crops, and a spring drought that severely impacted spring crops. Plants from the winter crop produced twice as many fibres at mid-stem height as the spring crop, but the mechanical properties of the elementary fibres remained similar in both. However, the elementary fibres in the lower stems of the winter crop averaged only 15 mm in length, compared to 33 mm for the spring crop, which benefited from higher temperatures. Regarding biochemical composition, lignin content in winter flax scutched fibres was significantly higher than in spring flax, at 4.2% versus 2.7%. Cultivating a spring flax variety in winter is thus feasible under favourable conditions, but the resulting fibres are shorter and more lignified, which may pose technical challenges during spinning and could require separating fibres from the lower stems of winter plants to ensure consistent fibre quality. In the final section of the paper, strategies to adapt flax cultivation to climate change are proposed, drawing on the experimental results and current meteorological projections, providing guidance for optimizing crop performance. Full article

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14 pages, 1784 KB

Open AccessArticle

Research on the Workability of 3D Printed Fiber-Reinforced Concrete Materials

by Qunyi Huang, Qingyu Huang, Hong Yang, Jiahang Zhang and Yajie Wu

Fibers 2026, 14(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/fib14010001 - 19 Dec 2025

Viewed by 461

Abstract

This paper investigates the fundamental workability of 3D printed concrete materials incorporating different fiber types. Fluidity, extrudability, and buildability were proposed as key indicators for assessing printability, evaluated through corresponding test methods, including fluidity tests, filament extrusion tests, and slump tests. The results [...] Read more.

This paper investigates the fundamental workability of 3D printed concrete materials incorporating different fiber types. Fluidity, extrudability, and buildability were proposed as key indicators for assessing printability, evaluated through corresponding test methods, including fluidity tests, filament extrusion tests, and slump tests. The results demonstrate that the optimal ranges for printability are superplasticizer content between 0.35% and 0.45%, accelerator content between 0.60% and 0.85%, and silica fume replacement level between 7.5% and 10%. The incorporation of copper-coated steel fibers led to deteriorated workability, manifested as reduced fluidity, increased fluidity loss over time, poor pumpability, discontinuous extrusion, and low slump, although buildability remained satisfactory. Polypropylene fibers increased the air content in concrete, thereby improving workability; they exhibited good extrusion continuity, appropriate slump and filament width, and favorable buildability. Basalt fibers significantly enhanced air content and workability. However, due to the high stiffness of the fibers, extrusion continuity was only moderate. While the slump and filament width were suitable, the presence of minor voids in the printed filaments resulted in average buildability. Full article

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Fibers, Volume 14, Issue 1 (January 2026) – 15 articles

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