Performance evaluation of jute fiber‐reinforced recycled aggregate concrete: Strength and durability aspects

Abstract

AbstractNowadays, recycled coarse aggregates (RCA) are playing a major role in sustainable construction as compared to natural coarse aggregates (NCA). Researchers use fibers and cementitious materials to improve the mechanical properties of concrete. Nowadays, RCA are playing a major role in a sustainable environment as compared to NCA. This article examines the combined effect of jute fiber (JF) and RCA on the durability and mechanical properties of concrete. A total of 15 concrete mixes are prepared, in which three categories of concrete mixes are prepared by utilizing 100%RCA, 50%RCA, and 0%RCA and in each mix, 0.60%, 0.45%, 0.30%, 0.15%, and 0% of JF by volume of concrete are used. Mechanical properties of concrete are analyzed by flexural strength, split tensile strength, and compressive strength tests whereas durability properties of concrete are analyzed by sorptivity coefficient, porosity, and chloride penetration tests. The experimental results depict that smaller dosages of JF (0.15%) have a positive effect on the mechanical properties of concrete with RCA whereas greater dosages of JF (≥0.30%) have an adverse effect on mechanical concrete properties with RCA. The mechanical properties are increased by more than 4% in the case of a lower percentage of JF. The durability of concrete shows a negative impact on concrete with the increasing percentages of RCA and JF in all types of the mix. The durability of concrete is more affected in the case of higher dosages of JF.