Durability Studies of Polypropylene Fibre Reinforced Concrete

Abstract

A research programme was initiated to understand the durability of polypropylene fibre reinforced concrete (PFRC). PFRC was prepared with varying dosages of polypropylene fibre. Dosages used were 0.5–1.5% of cement content (by weight) with an interval of 0.5% and was added as a cement replacement to concrete mix. Durability studies were carried out by exposing the 28 days cured cubical specimens into marine environment having different pH levels (1, 4, 7, 10 and 13). The varying pH levels represent the pH of industrial effluents. The marine environment was simulated in the laboratory by adding 3.5% NaCl to the tap water. The specimens were exposed for the durations of 60 and 90 days. The resistance of concrete to marine environment was measured through compressive strength retention and ultimate bond strength retention. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) studies were also carried out to understand the fibre dispersion. Test results show that compressive and bond strength increases with increase in pH and decreases with increase in immersion duration. Concrete with 0.5 and 1% fibre content are more desirable and have given higher residual compressive and residual bond strength when compared to concrete with 1.5% fibre content.