Effect of different curing conditions on compressive strength and durability of kenaf fibre reinforced blended cementitious composites

Abstract

This paper investigates the effect of normal curing (NC), air curing (AC), and burlap curing (BC) under different curing periods on the mechanical strength and durability of kenaf fibre reinforced blended cementitious composites (KFRBCC) with thermally activated alum sludge ash (AASA). The aim is to determine the most efficient condition and period for curing KFRBCC and to assess the effect of accelerated ageing on strength and durability of KFRBCC after wet/dry cycles. Meanwhile, the microstructure of these mixes is observed via scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The KFRBCC is designed to achieve strength beyond 50 MPa after 28 days (d) of curing by adding 2% treated kenaf fibre (KF) and by replacing Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) with AASA. The findings suggest that compressive strength and durability of KFRBCC with 40% AASA cured under BC after age of 28 d are enhanced. The addition of treated KF with AASA have helped in limiting the reduction in the compressive strength and durability of the KFRBCC, particularly under prolonged curing period.