The incorporation of glass fibre in cement composites contributed
to the reinforcement between the matrices and increased thestrength and toughness; and detained crack propagation of the
composites. It was reported that the high surface area and low
thickness of glass reinforced composite panels can lead to an
increase in drying shrinkage resulting in distortion, wrapping and
poor strength [28]. The chemical reaction of cement on fibre reinforced
plastic is not well established and long-term durability is
needed to be defined. However, studies on chemical interactions
between glass fibre and cement showed that glass fibre produced
from oxides of sodium oxide, silica and zirconium composition in
the powder form are inherently alkali resistant and suitable for
reinforcement with cement composites [29]. These types of glass
fibres are currently being used commercially and expected not to
produce any adverse impact on the long-term durability. The thin
cement composite sheet using 5% virgin glass fibre impregnated in
epoxy and dispersed in concrete mix has been used mostly in
Europe [10]. In making cement composite sheets, glass fibre in the
form of continuous fibre, or chopped fibre or as a mat can be used.
The present study revealed that the application of GRP waste fibre
has improved the bending strength and reduced the crack propagation
of the cement composites. It was interesting to note that the
control specimens (without GRP waste fibre) showed multiple
cracks and low bending strength.