<p>This study investigates the mechanical and durability performance of Fiber Reinforced Stabilized Mud Blocks (FRSMBs) fabricated using soil reconstituted with manufactured sand (M-Sand), stabilized with cement, and reinforced with both Areca-nut fiber (natural) and Polypropylene fiber (synthetic). The incorporation (reconstitution) of 50% M-Sand reduces clay content in the soil matrix to nearly 10%, while fiber reinforcement were varied from 0% to 1.0% by weight with an increment of 0.25%. The blocks were subjected to dry and wet compressive strength tests, water absorption and initial rate of absorption evaluations in accordance with relevant Indian Standards. Results demonstrated that polypropylene fiber reinforced blocks outperformed those reinforced with areca-nut fiber in all strength and durability metrics, particularly at 1.0% fiber content. Polypropylene fibers contributed to enhanced bonding, reduced water absorption and better structural integrity due to their superior tensile strength and resistance to environmental degradation. SEM results demonstrated increased fiber–matrix interlocking, with areca fibers displaying stronger C–S–H adhesion and polypropylene fibers offering excellent crack bridging. The findings suggest that synthetic fibers, particularly polypropylene, provide a viable solution for improving the performance of sustainable earth-based construction materials.</p>

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Performance Evaluation of Areca-Nut and Polypropylene Fiber-Reinforced Stabilized Mud Blocks

  • Jhenkara Manjunath,
  • B. P. Annapurna

摘要

This study investigates the mechanical and durability performance of Fiber Reinforced Stabilized Mud Blocks (FRSMBs) fabricated using soil reconstituted with manufactured sand (M-Sand), stabilized with cement, and reinforced with both Areca-nut fiber (natural) and Polypropylene fiber (synthetic). The incorporation (reconstitution) of 50% M-Sand reduces clay content in the soil matrix to nearly 10%, while fiber reinforcement were varied from 0% to 1.0% by weight with an increment of 0.25%. The blocks were subjected to dry and wet compressive strength tests, water absorption and initial rate of absorption evaluations in accordance with relevant Indian Standards. Results demonstrated that polypropylene fiber reinforced blocks outperformed those reinforced with areca-nut fiber in all strength and durability metrics, particularly at 1.0% fiber content. Polypropylene fibers contributed to enhanced bonding, reduced water absorption and better structural integrity due to their superior tensile strength and resistance to environmental degradation. SEM results demonstrated increased fiber–matrix interlocking, with areca fibers displaying stronger C–S–H adhesion and polypropylene fibers offering excellent crack bridging. The findings suggest that synthetic fibers, particularly polypropylene, provide a viable solution for improving the performance of sustainable earth-based construction materials.