Experimental Investigation of Natural Fiber Reinforced Concrete in Construction Industry

Concrete made with Portland cement possesses specific characteristics, including strength in compression but weakness in tension, which makes it prone to breakage. This study investigates the potential of incorporating sisal fibers to enhance the mechanical properties of concrete. It aims to compare the properties of fiber-reinforced concrete against traditional concrete without fibers, focusing on how varying fiber types and geometries influence performance. A series of laboratory tests, including workability, compressive strength, split tensile strength, and flexural strength tests, were conducted. Ten concrete mix batches with fiber dosages of 0%, 0.5%, 1%, and 2% were produced, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of the impact of fiber inclusion. Findings indicated that the addition of sisal fibers significantly improves the toughness and mechanical characteristics of concrete compared to conventional formulations. As sisal fiber is low-cost, has low density, and presents zero health risks, its use in composite materials shows great promise for advancing sustainable construction methods. The research contributes valuable insights into optimizing concrete mixtures that leverage natural fibers, promoting their application in the construction industry.