EFFECT OF NATURAL AND SYNTHETIC FIBERS ON THE PROPERTIES OF ORDINARY CONCRETE

This research investigates the effect of natural and synthetic fibers on the properties of ordinary concrete, focusing on sisal fibers as a natural option and hooked-end steel fibers as a synthetic alternative. The study examines the mechanical and physical properties of concrete, including compressive strength, flexural strength, tensile strength, dry density, and water absorption. Fibers were added at varying volume fractions, ranging from 0.25% to 0.75% for sisal fibers and 1% to 1.5% for steel fibers. The experimental results revealed that sisal fibers improved flexural and tensile strengths up to an optimal content of 0.5%, with a slight reduction in compressive strength due to increased voids at higher fiber contents. Steel fibers consistently enhanced compressive strength, flexural strength, and density, with maximum performance observed at 1.5% content. Additionally, sisal fibers increased water absorption due to their hydrophilic nature, while steel fibers reduced it by enhancing matrix cohesion. This study concludes that sisal fibers are suitable for sustainable and lightweight applications, while steel fibers are more appropriate for high-strength concrete in structural applications. The findings provide valuable insights into optimizing fiber-reinforced concrete for various engineering applications.