Comparative study about mechanical properties of strutural standard concrete and concrete with addition of vegetable fibers

Abstract

This paper explored the effect of adding organic fibers from either bamboo or sugarcane on the mechanical properties of concrete. Cylindrical and prismatic specimens were made containing 2% and 5% v/w (volume to weight) of vegetable fibers to concrete. Following 28 days of curing period, the samples were evaluated for compressive strength, tensile strength using diametric compression, tensile strength during bending and static modulus. It was discovered that all concretes produced met the minimum strength of 20 MPa recommended by NBR 6118 for structural purposes, and it was observed an increase of the compressive strength on the specimens with addition of organic fibers. Moreover, an increase in the compressive strength was observed in the specimens with fiber addition, although no significant variation of water absorption was noticed when compared with the standard concrete. In conclusion, the concrete containing 2% v/w of bamboo fibers showed better mechanical strength and static modulus of elasticity when compared to both concrete with sugar cane fibers addition and the concrete without any additional fibers.