Investigating the Effect of Age on Some Mechanical Properties of Coconut Fibre Reinforced Concrete (CFRC)
Abstract
This study explores the long-term effects of aging on the mechanical properties of Coconut Fibre Reinforced Concrete (CFRC) compared to plain concrete (PC). An experimental analysis was conducted on structural-grade concrete mixes, ranging from 20 to 50 N/mm², over curing periods of 28, 60, 120, and 180 days to evaluate compressive strength, split tensile strength, and density. The results indicate that CFRC exhibited a 10–18% reduction in compressive strength compared to PC, depending on the grade and curing duration. In contrast, CFRC's split tensile strength showed a notable 22–35% increase, demonstrating enhanced ductility and crack resistance over time. Additionally, density measurements revealed a 4–9% reduction due to the incorporation of coconut fibres. While CFRC improves sustainability and tensile performance, addressing long-term degradation challenges is crucial for optimal structural applications. These findings provide valuable insights into the viability of CFRC in sustainable construction, informing engineers and policymakers about its long-term performance in tropical environments.
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