Effects of Hybrid Ramie-Steel Fibers on Mechanical Properties and Durability of Eco-Friendly Hybrid-Fiber Reinforced Concrete
摘要
This study presents the experimental results of plain concrete and HFRC incorporating ramie and hooked-end steel fibers. To prevent the exhaustion of natural resources, M-Sand was used fully instead of natural river sand, and 50% of treated RCA and 50% of natural coarse aggregates were used for all hybrid fiber-reinforced concrete specimens. Plain specimens and natural coarse aggregate were used. In this study, 17 different mixes were prepared: one is plain concrete, and the remaining 16 are hybrid fiber-reinforced concrete specimens. Ramie fiber and hooked-end steel fibers were utilized in different proportions. Steel fibers of different forms were available. M20 grade mixes were prepared in this investigation. The utilization of ramie fiber makes a way to create an eco-friendly environment and sustainable development. Compressive strength, split tensile strength, flexural strength, elastic modulus, and impact tests were conducted to determine the mechanical properties of the plain and HFRC specimens. Water absorption, acid attack, sulfate, and artificial marine attack tests were conducted to examine the durability properties of the plain and HFRC specimens. The abovementioned tests were conducted and tested on different curing days. The synergistic effects of fibers in hybrid form result in enhanced strength compared to the plain specimen. Performances of the HFRC specimens in terms of mechanical and durability are highly increased compared to the plain specimens. A new ITZ was formed between the cement paste and the aggregates and was marked in optical photograph analysis.