Keywords

Abstract

Coir fiber; 

 Plastic fiber; 

Stress- strain behavior; 

Durability properties; 

Flexural behavior; 

Micro structural analysis

This study investigates the structural application of fiber-reinforced concrete using coir and plastic fibers. The experiment incorporated various percentages of fibers in concrete: coir fiber and plastic fibers at 0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, and 2%. An over-all of 80 concrete cubes, 42 cylinders, and 40 prisms were cast and examined to assess various mechanical properties. Compressive strength, and durability tests were conducted on the concrete cubes. The cylinders were subjected to split tensile tests and stress-strain behavior evaluations. The prisms underwent flexural strength tests to determine their performance under load. Additionally, the study included reinforced concrete beams reinforced with steel and fibers, and one beam with fibers only. Flexural strength tests were conducted on these beams, resulting in stress-strain behavior and load-deflection. Advanced characterization techniques such as Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX), and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) were applied to end sample powders of both normal and optimized mixes The findings indicate that the incorporation of 1% coir and plastic fibers significantly enhances the mechanical performance of concrete. The results from compressive strength, tensile strength, and flexural strength tests recommend that fiber reinforcement improves the durability and structural integrity of concrete. The SEM, EDX, and FTIR analyses provided insights into the microstructural changes and bonding characteristics of the fiber-reinforced concrete, corroborating the mechanical test outcomes. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that fiber-reinforced concrete, particularly with 1% coir and plastic fibers, the 1% of coir sample increased tensile strength by 10% and flexural strength by 20%, while the 1% plastic fiber improved flexural strength by 50% and split tensile strength by 30%. It is a viable and sustainable option for enhancing the mechanical performance and durability of concrete structures. This creative approach has potential for building environmentally friendly concrete infrastructure.

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