Fresh Properties, Strength, and Durability of Fiber-Reinforced Geopolymer and Conventional Concrete: A Review

Abstract

Reducing the environmental footprint of the construction industry in general and concrete in particular is essential. The addition of synthetic and natural fibers to concrete mixes at appropriate dosages enhances durability and strength and extends the lifespan of concrete infrastructures. This study reviews the geometric and mechanical properties of selected fibers such as steel, basalt, polypropylene, polyvinyl alcohol, polyethylene, glass, carbon, and natural fibers and their impact on concrete fresh, mechanical, and durability properties when combined in different configurations. The study focuses on the effect of blending fibers with concrete mixes that use alkali-activated binders based on recycled industrial byproducts such as slag and fly ash and thereby contribute to reduction of CO2 contribution through complete or partial replacement of Ordinary Portland cement (OPC). As a result, the effect of binder content, binder composition, alkaline activator concentration, and water-to-binder (w/b) ratio on fresh properties, mechanical strength, and durability of concrete with blended fibers is also evaluated in this study. The properties of fiber-reinforced concrete with alkali-activated binder and conventional OPC binders are compared. Fiber-reinforced concrete with alkali-activated binders that are based on industrial byproducts may represent sustainable alternatives to conventional concrete and offers competitive fresh and mechanical properties when fiber properties, fiber content, w/b ratio, binder type, and dosage are carefully considered in concrete mix design.