Experimental and predictive evaluation of mechanical properties of kenaf-polypropylene fibre-reinforced concrete using response surface methodology

Abstract: Fibre-reinforced concrete (FRC) is an emerging construction material. However, improving its mechanical properties using sustainable materials remains a concern. In this paper, a combination of experimental and numerical techniques is applied to investigate the combined influence of kenaf (K) and polypropylene fibre (PPF) on the mechanical properties of KPPFRC. The optimal design component of Response Surface Methodology was utilised with combined fibre content between 0.5% and 2%. The results show a general increase in the mechanical properties with KF being the main contributing factor, and corresponding decreases in all responses with the increase in PPF. Nonetheless, the predicted optimal volume fraction of 1.5% consisting of 1.0 kg kF and 0.51 kg PPF gives a 100%, 174% and 100% rise in compressive, split tensile, and flexural strength respectively compared to the control sample. Hence, these optimal proportions of KF and PPF can be utilised as an eco-friendly sustainable material in concrete.

Author(s): Idris Ahmed Ja’e a,c, Ahmed Rafid Salih b, Agusril Syamsir a,b, Teh Hee Min d, Zarina Itam a,b, Chiemela Victor Amaechi a,e, Vivi Anggraini f, Jayaprakash Sridhar g

Date Published: June 6, 2019

Depositing User: Jawad Ali

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dibe.2023.100262

Keywords: Predicted mechanical propertiesKenaf and polypropylene fibreFibre-reinforced concreteEnergyResponse surface analysis

Page(s): 29-34

Publication title: Developments in the Built Environment

Published URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666165923001448?via%3Dihub

Publisher: Elsevier Ltd

Subject(s): Civil engineering