FRC1

EXPERIMENTAL STUDY ON POLYPROPYLENE FIBRE-REINFORCED CONCRETE 2020
INDEX
SL.N0 CONTENTS PAGE.NO
1 CHAPTER 1: Consist general introduction, composite materials like fibres 02-14

& their types, fibre reinforced concrete, general terms used, scope of work
and experimental methodology.
2 CHAPTER 2: Discusses the cirtical reviews of literature on materials, 15-20

methods used and result of recent past investigations around the world on
the topic and its related areas. Towards the end of the chapter conclude
remarks with the research topic.
3 CHAPTER 3: This chapter concludes materials and methodology. 21-26

4 CHAPTER 4: This chapter concludes experimental programme. 27-34
5 CHAPTER 5: This chapter concludes results and discussion. 35-44
6 CHAPTER 6: This chapter concludes summary and conclusion . 45-46
7 CHAPTER 7: This chapter concludes suggestions and scope.. 47
8 CHAPTER 8: This chapter concludes references. 48-49
DEPT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, UVCE Page 1

CHAPTER 1
1.1 INTRODUCTION
As modern Engineering practices become more demanding, there is an

increasing need for a wider spectrum of construction materials with novel properties.
It includes developing existing materials into ones with modified properties in
combination with other suitable materials.
Cement concrete is a processed construction material of immense importance
not only in the field of civil engineering but also in the history of mankind.
Developments in concrete technology have yielded new types of cements and

concrete. High alumina cements, rapid setting cements, regulated set cements,
pozzolanic cement, ready mixed concretes, light weight concretes, super plasticized
concretes, high strength and high-density concretes, prestressed and precast concretes
are several examples of such developments.
On other hand, new concepts and new concrete like structural composites have
been developed. A structural composite maybe defined as a man made material
fabricated with at least two chemically and physically distinct materials. The
composite so created possesses properties superior to those of any of the individual
ingredients.
Concrete is one of the most important items among the building materials in
all types of civil engineering works. Since the adoption of concrete acts as building
material lots of research and studies have been made to improve the quality, strength
and durability of it. By the same time efforts are also been made to economize concrete
construction compared to other materials.
Plain concrete is good in compression but weak in tensile strength with every
limited ductility and little resistance to cracking. Internal micro cracks are inherently
present in the concrete and its poor tensile strength is due to propagation of such micro
cracks, eventually leading to brittle fractions of the concrete. Generally, in case of
rigid pavements cracks are formed due to variation in temperature shrinkage and
heavy moving loads.

Attempts have been made to reduce cracks and impart improvement in tensile
property of concrete members using conventionally reinforced steel bars and by
applying restraining techniques. Although both these methods provide tensile strength
to the concrete members, they however, do not increase the inherent tensile strength
of concrete itself.
In plain concrete and similar brittle materials, structural micro cracks develop
even before loading due to drying and shrinkage of other causes of volume change.
When loaded, these micro cracks propagate and open up owing to the effect of stress
concentration.
It has been recognized that the addition of small closely spaced and uniformly
dispersed fibres to concrete would act as crack resistance and would substantially
improve its static and dynamic properties. This type of concrete is known as FIBRE
REINFORCED CONCRETE.
1.1 FIBRE
Fiber is a small piece of reinforcing material possessing certain characteristics
properties. They can be circular or flat. The fiber is often described by a convenient
parameter called “aspect ratio”. The aspect ratio of the fiber is the ratio of its length
to its diameter. Typical aspect ratio ranges from 30 to 150.
Although every type of fiber has been tried out in concrete, not all of them can
be effectively and economically used. Each type of fiber has its characteristics
properties and limitations. Some of the fibers that could be used are steel fibers,
polypropylene, nylon, asbestos, glass and carbon.
1.1.1 TYPES OF FIBRES
1.1.1.1 RECRON 3S:

RECRON 3s is a polyester fiber. They are found to be suitable to increase the
impact and tensile strength. They are one of the cheapest and abundantly available
polyester they are available with diameter 0.035mm and length 12mm 16mm.

They are resistant to most chemicals. They have high melting point (about 250 ͦ C).
So that working temperature as high as 100 ͦC may be sustained for short periods
without detriment to fiber properties.
1.1.1.2 STEEL FIBRE:

It is one of the most commonly used fibers. A number of steel-fiber types are available
as reinforcement. Round steel fibers, the commonly used type, are produced by cutting
round wires into short lengths. The typical diameters lie in the range of 0.25 to
0.75mm. Splitting the sheet about 0.25mm thick produces steel fibers having a
rectangular cross-section. Flat steel fibers have cross sections ranging from 0.15 to
0.4mm thickness by 0.25 to 0.9mm width.
Crimped and deformed steel fibers are available both in full length or crimped
at the ends only. To facilities handling and mixing, fibers collated into bundles of 10
to 30 with water-soluble glue are also available. Typical aspect ratios range from
about 30 to 150. For improving the mechanical bond between fiber and matrix,
indented, crimped, machined and hook-ended fibers are normally produced.
The steel fiber likely to get rusted and lose some of its strengths. But
investigations have shown that the rusting of fibers takes place only at the surface.
Use of steel fiber makes significant improvements in flexural, impact and fatigue
strength of concrete.

TABLE: 1.1 TYPICAL PROPERTIES OF FIBERS

Tensile Young’s Ultimate Specific
Type of fiber Strength Modulus Elongation Gravity
(ksi) (10^3ksi) (%)
Acrylic 30-60 0.3 25-45 1.1
Asbestos 80-140 12-20 ~0.6 3.2
Cotton 60-100 0.7 3-10 1.5
Glass 150-550 10 1.5-3.5 2.5
Nylon(high tenacity) 110-120 0.6 16-20 1.1
Polyester(high 105-125 1.2 11-13 1.4

tenacity)
Polyethylene ~100 0.02-0.06 ~10 0.95
Polypropylene 80-110 0.5 ~25 0.90
Rayon(high 60-90 1.0 10-25 1.5

tenacity)
Rock 70-110 10-17 ~0.6 2.7
Wool(Scandinavian)
Steel 40-400 29 0.5-35 7.8

1.1.1.3POLYPROPYLENE FIBERS:
They are found to be suitable to increase the impact strength. They are one of
the cheapest and abundantly available polymers. They possess very high tensile
strength. They are resistant to most chemicals. They have high melting point (about
165 C)ͦ so that a working temperature as high as 100 Cͦ may be sustained for short
periods without detriment to fiber properties. These fibers being hydrophobic can be
easily mixed, as they do not need lengthy contact during mixing and only need to be
evenly dispersed in the mix. These are therefore added shortly before the end of
mixing the normal constituents. Prolonged mixing may lead to undesirable shredding
of fibers. Their low modulus of elasticity and higher elongation do not contribute to
the flexural strength.
Properties of polypropylene fiber are shown in table specified by the supplier
TABLE: 1.2 PROPERTIES OF RECRON 3s FIBRES

Sl. No Properties Value
1 Specific gravity 0.91
2 Bulk density 910 kg/cumec
3 Water absorption Nil
4 Tensile strength 0.67 KN/Sq mm
5 Form Fibrillated
6 Dosage 0.25% by weight of cement

FIGURE-1 RECRON 3S FIBRES
1.2 FIBER REINFORCED CONCRETE

Fibre reinforced concrete is made of hydraulic cements containing fine and
coarse aggregates discontinuous discrete fibres of specific geometry. Or it can be
defined as two-phase composite in which concrete is reinforced by short closely
spaced fibres.
Fibre reinforced concrete is a relatively new construction material developed
through extensive research and development work during the last two decades. It has
already found a wide range of particular applications and has proved as a reliable
construction material having superior performance characteristics compared to
conventional concrete. Incorporation of polymer or other fibres in concrete has been
found to improve several of its properties; cracking resistance, impact and wear
resistance, ductility and fatigue resistance. It is for this reason that FRC is now being
increasingly used in structure such as airport pavement, bridge deck, machine
foundation, blast resistant structure, piles, pipes, sea protective structures, ship hulls,
and storage tanks.
Even though interest in this new material was generated about decades ago,
large scale use of FRC has been on the increase only after the past ten years. Several
types of configurations of fibres have been made in mixing and placing of fibre
reinforced concrete. Several organizations in India have been carrying out research
and development work on fibre reinforced concrete composite from the early 1970s.
The applications so far have been in the construction of industrial floors and airport
apron slabs and in the production of precast concrete component such as man hole
cover. There is a vast scope for application of fibre reinforced concrete in precast
construction and in in-situ repair works.
The presence of micro cracks at the mortar-aggregate interface is responsible
for inherent weakness of the plain concrete. The weakness can be removed by
inclusion of fibres in the mix, which helps of transfer load at internal micro cracks.
The fibres can be imagined as an aggregate with an extremely deviation in
shape from the rounded smooth aggregate. The fibres interlock and entangle around
aggregate particles and considerably reduce the workability, while the mix becomes
more cohesive and less prone to segregation. The fibres suitable for reinforcing the
concrete have been produced from steel, glass and organic polymers. Naturally
occurring asbestos fibres and vegetable fibres, such as jute, are also used for
reinforced.
Fibres are available in different sizes shapes. They can be classified into two
basic categories, namely those having elastic modules than concrete matrix (called
hard intrusion) and those with lower elastic modulus (called soft intrusion). Steel,
carbon and glass have higher elastic moduli than cement mortar matrix, and
polypropylene and vegetable fibres are the low modulus fibres. High modulus fibres
improve both flexural and impact resistance simultaneously, whereas low modulus
fibres improve the impact resistance of concrete but do not contribute much to flexural
strength.
The major factors affecting the characteristics of fibre-reinforced concrete
are: water-cement ratio, percentage (volume fraction) of fibres, diameter and length
of fibres.
The location and extent of cracking under load will depend upon the
orientation and number of fibres in the cross-section. The fibres restrain the shrinkage

and creep movements of reinforced matrix. However, fibres have been found to be
more effective in controlling compression creep than tensile creep of unreinforced
matrix. The addition of fibres in brittle cement and concrete matrices offer a
convenient, practical and economical method of overcoming their inherent
deficiencies of poor tensile and impact strength, and enhances many of structural
properties of the basic materials such as fracture toughness, flexure strength and
resistance to fatigue, impact, thermal shock or spalling.
Essentially, fibres act as a crack arrestor restricting the development of crack
and thus transforming an inherently brittle matrix i.e. Portland cement with its low
tensile and impact resistances, into a strong composite with superior crack resistance,
improved ductility and distinctive post-cracking behavior prior to failure.
1.3 GENERAL TERMS USED IN FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE

1. Aspect ratio: The ratio of length to diameter of the fibre. Diameter may be
equivalent diameter.
2. Balling: When fibres entangle into large clumps or balls in a mixture.
3. Collated: Fibres bundled together either by cross-linking or by chemical or by
mechanical means.
4. Equivalent Diameter: Diameter of a circle with an area equal to the cross section
area of the fibre.
5. Fibre Count: The number of fibres in a unit volume of concrete matrix.
6. First Crack: The point on the flexural load deflection or tensile load extension
curve at which the form of the curve first becomes nonlinear.
7. First Crack Strength: The stress corresponding to the load at “first crack” for a fibre
reinforced concrete composite in bending or tension.
8. Flexural Toughness: The area under the flexural load deflection curve obtained
from a static test of a specimen of a specified deflection. It is indication of the energy
absorption capability of a material.
9. Impact Strength: The total energy required to break a standard test specimen of a

specified impact conditions.

10. Modulus of Rupture: The greatest bending stress attained in a flexural strength
test of a fibre reinforced concrete specimen.
11. Monofilament: Single filament fibre typically cylindrical on cross section.
12. Process Fibres: Fibres added to the concrete matrix as fillers or to facilitate a
production process.
13. Proportional Elastic Limit (PEL): The greatest bending stress that a material is
capable of developing without significant deviation from proportionality of stress to
strain.
14. Specific Surface: The total surface area of fibres in a volume of concrete matrix.
15. Toughness Indices: The numbers obtained by dividing the area under the load
deflection curve up to a specified deflection by the area under the load deflection
curve up to a “first crack”
1.4 PROPERTIES OF FRC

The properties of fibre reinforced concrete in fresh and hardened state are
influenced by the type, geometry, and volume fraction and material properties of the
fibre, the matrix proportion and the fibre matrix interfacial bond characteristics. Some
properties of fibre reinforced concrete are described below:
Workability: Fibres in a concrete mix essentially act as inclusion with a large
surface area. The large surface area reduces immediately the free water available for
workability of the fresh mix. Apart from the fibre geometry and fibre volume, the size.
Shape and volume fractions of coarse aggregate also have pronounced influence on
the fibre aggregate interaction and workability. It is generally advantageous to
increase the fibre size as the aggregate size increases. To be fully effective both the
fibres and aggregates must be completely embedded in the matrix.
A fibre concrete mix therefore contains a higher proportion of fine materials.
Further, the presence of fibres and aggregates create inter particle friction not only
amongst fibres and aggregates themselves, but also between fibres and aggregates.
This leads to distortion and agglomeritation of fibres, difficulties of

compaction and non-uniform distribution of fibres in the concrete mix, resulting in

inefficient use of fibre and lower strength. To produce therefore, a satisfactory
workable mix with adequate compatibility and without balling of fibres, it is essential
that the relative fibre aggregate volume is controlled.
The flow ability and compatibility characteristics of fibre concrete mixes can
be greatly improved by the incorporation of suitable amount of crushed fines or fly
ash or by addition of liquid admixtures, which would reduce the inter particle friction
between aggregate and the other inclusions.
1. Compatibility: More energy is required to compact fibre reinforced concrete than
conventional concrete. Both fibre diameter and fibre length along with the volume
influence the compatibility.
2. Permeability: The addition of fibres to concrete tends to increase the amount of
porosity. This may lead to the reduction of strength and durability and increase of
deformation and permeability. So to reduce the permeability it is required to compact
the concrete very well. Even in a well compacted composite the discontinuous fibres
or matrix bond may provide permeable passage.
3. Shrinkage: The current paste matrix is subjected to inherent volume changes and
moisture movement and therefore undergoes both shrinkage and creep. Shrinkage
frequently causes excessive cracking and deflection and sometimes failures with an
inherent loss in serviceability, durability and long term safety of concrete structures.
Increase in randomly distributed fibres can contribute to an increase in
stiffness through their bond effect and thus reduce the shrinkage of concrete, more the
fibres added less the shrinkage measured. Size and shape, fibre type and aspect ratio
also influence the shrinkage of fibre reinforced concrete. For the same type of fibre
the longer the fibre length, the better the shrinkage strain reduction.
The bond strength is the function of radial pressure exerted an the fibre by the
matrix, and coefficient of friction which is the constant property of the fibre matrix
interface.

1.5 FACTORS AFFECTING PROPERTIES OF FIBRE REINFORCED

CONCRETE
Fibre reinforced concrete is the composite material containing fibres in the
cement matrix in an orderly manner or randomly distributed manner. Its properties
would obviously, depend upon the efficient transfer of stress between matrix and the
fibre, which is largely dependent on type of fibre, fibre geometry, fibre cement,
orientation and distribution of the fibres, mixing and compaction techniques of
concrete, size and shape of aggregate. These factors are briefly discussed below:
1.5.1 RELATIVE FIBRE MATRIX STIFFNESS

The modulus of elasticity of matrix must be much lower than that of fibre for
efficient stress transfer. Low modulus of fibres such as nylon and polypropylene are
therefore unlikely to give strength improvement, but they help in the absorption of
large energy and therefore impart greater degree of toughness and resistance to
impact. High modulus fibres such as steel, glass and carbon impart strength and
stiffness to the composite.
Interfacial bond between the matrix and the fibres also determine the effectiveness of
stress transfer, from the matrix, to the fibre. A good bond is essential for improving
tensile strength of the composite. The interfacial bond could be improved by larger area
of contact, improving the frictional properties and degree of gripping and by treating
the steel fibres with sodium hydroxide or acetone.
1.5.2 VOLUME OF FIBRES

The strength of the composite largely depends on the quantity of fibres used
in it. It can be seen that the increase in volume of fibres, increase approximately
linearly, the tensile strength and toughness of the composite. Use of higher percentage
of fibre is likely to cause segregation and hardness of concrete and mortar.
1.5.3 ASPECT RATIO OF THE FIBRE

Another important factor which influences the properties and behavior of the

composite is the aspect ratio of the fibre. It has been reported that up to aspect ratio
of 75, relative strength and toughness is reduced.
1.5.4 ORIENTATION OF FIBRES
One of the differences between conventional reinforcement and fibre
reinforcement is that in conventional reinforcement, bars are oriented in the direction
desired while fibers are randomly oriented. To see the effect of randomness, mortar
specimens reinforced with 0.5% volume of fibres were tested. In one set of specimens,
fibres were aligned in the direction of the load, in another direction perpendicular to
that of the load, and in the 3rd randomly distributed. It was observed that the fibres
aligned parallel to the applied load offered more tensile strength and toughness than
randomly distributed or perpendicular fibres.
1. Workability and compaction of concrete: Incorporation of fibre decreases the
workability considerably. This situation adversely affects the consolidation of fresh
mix. Even prolonged external vibration fails to compact the concrete.
The fibre volume at which this situation is reached depends on the length and diameter
of the fibre. Another consequence of poor workability is non-uniform distribution of
the fibres.
2. Mixing: Mixing of fibre reinforced concrete needs careful conditions to avoid
balling of fibres, segregation and in general the difficulty of materials uniformly.
Increase in the aspect ratio, volume percentage, size and quantity of coarse aggregate
intensify the difficulties and balling tendencies. It is important that the fibres are
dispersed before the water is added. When mixing in a laboratory mixer, introducing
the fibres through a wire mesh basket will help even distribution of fibres. For field
uses other suitable methods must be adopted.
1.6 SCOPE OF THE WORK

The original scope of this research was to investigate the properties of concrete
with recron fibres. The hardened properties of concrete were tested with recron fibres.
The crack pattern of concrete with recron fibres was studied. In addition to this
research several tests were also included such as compressive strength and split tensile
with recron fibres. For this research the percentage of the recron fibres to the concrete

was added in the incremental order. This addition was done in 0.1%,0.2%,0.25%
increments, until optimum percentage was found. Thus addition of recron fibres to the
concrete would lead to considerable environmental benefits and would be economical
and will also impart strength to the concrete.
1.7 EXPERIMENTAL METHODOLOGY

1. Properties of all ingredient materials cement, sand, aggregates are studied
experimentally.
2. The design of required concrete mix is made.
3. In order to improve performance of concrete, crack reducing materials will
be introduced in the form of recron fibres.
4. For different doses of fibres the concrete parameters such as compressive
strength, tensile strength and crack pattern is determined.

CHAPTER 2
LITERATURE REVIEW
GENERAL
This chapter discusses the background and needs for the development of fibre
reinforced concrete by using polypropylene fibre in concrete. The objective of
this chapter is to provide a literature review on the development of fibre
reinforced concrete.
2.1 STUDIES ON COMPRESSION, TENSILE & FLEXURAL STRENGTH OF

POLYPROPYLENE FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE
KORRAPATI ANIL KUMAR et al (SEP 2017)

The aggregates both fine and coarse are bonded together by the cement and
mixed with water to form concrete. The concrete has become so popular and
indispensable because of its inherent in nature brought a revolution in
applications of concrete. Concrete has unlimited opportunities for innovative
applications, design and construction techniques. Its great versality and
relative economy in filling wide range of needs has made it very competitive
building material. In this present investigation workability, strength properties
of concrete with Recron 3s fiber in proportions of 0%, 0.2%, 0.3% and 0.4%
is studied for M25 and M40 grade concrete cubes, cylinders and prisms.The
Recron Polyester fibers and Polypropylene fibers. The present investigation is
to study the workability parameters of M25 and M40 grades of concrete using
slump cone test, Compaction factor test, and Vee-bee time test. For strength
parameters, each grade of concrete for each proportion, cubes, cylinders,
prisms were casted for 7days, 28days, 56days and 91 days strength.
The compressive strength of M25 concrete at 28 days increased with the
addition of Recron 3s fiber up to 0.3% level when compared to that of plain
concrete. The percentage increase for Recron 3s fiber mixing in 0%, 0.2%,
0.3%, 0.4% range in the 0%, 3.44%, 18.21%, and 12.78% over plain mix. The
maximum percentage increases in 18.21% at 0.3% addition of Recron 3s fiber.
The compressive strength of M40 concrete at 28 days increased with the

addition of Recron 3s fiber up to 0.3% level when compared to that plain
concrete. The percentage increases for Recron 3s fiber mixing in 0%, 0.2%,
0.3%, 0.4% ranges in the 0%, 2.93%, 10.60%, and 6.40% over plain mix. The
maximum percentage increases in 10.60% at 0.3% addition of Recron 3s fiber.
Dr SUNIL V DESALE et al (JUNE 2016)

This paper investigates the effect of sustained elevated temperature on the
properties of ordinary concretes of three different grades i.e., M30, M35 and
M40 grades, containing 53 grade of cement. The specimens were heated to
1500C, 2500C and 3000C at 1 hour, 2hours and 3hours duration in muffle
furnace. They were tested for compressive and split tensile strengths after air
cooling to the room temperature. The variables considered in the study include
type of cementing material, and temperature. The compressive and tensile
strengths of concrete decreased with increasing temperature. And also recron
3s fiber material is used for increasing the strength of the concrete at various
temperatures.
In this experimental study Recron 3s fiber has been added to concrete in order
to enhance the strength characteristics of the concrete in percentages of 0.10%,
0.15%, 0.20%, 0.25%, 0.30%, 0.35% and 0.40% to the weight of concrete and
the optimum fiber content for Compressive and Tensile strengths were
obtained and it can be used for further study for determining the Compressive
and Tensile strengths of the conventional concrete without using recron 3s
fiber and concrete with recron 3s fiber material at various elevated
temperatures and were observed at 1hour, 2hours and 3hours duration for the
age of 7 days to 56 days.
The Compressive and Split Tensile strengths of concrete (with or without
addition of Recron 3s) cured in water for 28 days have reached the target mean
strength.
Recron 3s fiber has been added in percentages of 0.10%, 0.15%, 0.20%,
0.25%, 0.30%, 0.35% 0.40% to the weight of concrete and the optimum fiber

content for Compressive and Tensile strengths are obtained at 0.3% and on
further increment of fiber the strength reduces for all the three grades of
concrete i.e. M30, M35 and M40.
The Compressive strengths and Split tensile strengths of concrete were found
to increase when they are exposed to temperatures between 1500C - 2500C
with or without adding of Recron 3s fiber at 7 days, 28 days and 56 days for
1hr and 2 hrs duration.
Dr SHINDE D.N et al (DECEMBER 2015)

Concrete is the most widely used material in construction today. It is strong in
compression but weak in tension and also has a brittle character. In this
context, the results of experiments about the application of polypropylene
fiber in various weight proportions (1% to 3%) have been explained. Based on
the test results, it can be concluded that the addition of 1% of polypropylene
fibers can significantly promote the compressive and split tensile strength of
concrete
It is observed that compressive strength, split tensile strength and flexural
strength are on higher side for 2% fibers as compared to that produced from
0%, 1% and 3% fibers.
It is observed that compressive strength increases up to 20% with the addition
of 1% polypropylene fiber.
It is observed that split tensile strength increases up to 5% with the addition of
2% polypropylene fiber.
BALAGURU (1988)
According to Balaguru (1988) the uniaxial compression test is normally used

to evaluate the behavior of concrete in compression. This produces a
combination of shear failure near the ends of the specimen with lateral
swelling of the unconfined central section accompanied by cracking parallel to
the loading axis when the lateral strain exceeds the matrix cracking strain in
tension. Fibers can affect these facets of uniaxial compressive behavior that
involve shear stress and tensile strain. This can be seen from the increased
strain capacity and also from the increased toughness (area under the curve) in
the post-crack portion of the stress-strain curve.
KHAJURIA AND BALAGURU, (1989)
Khajuria and Balaguru, (1989) .in some instances, if more water is added to
fiber concrete to improve its workability, a reduction in compressive strength
can occur. This reduction should be attributed to additional water or due to an
increase in entrapped air, not fiber addition. Johnston and Skarendahl, (1992).
The addition of fibers up to a volume fraction of 0.1% does not affect the
compressive strength. When tested under compression, failure occurs at or
soon after the peak load providing very little toughness. It is found that the
fibers have very little effect on compressive strength calculated from the peak
load, and both slight increase and decrease in strength have been reported with
increase in fiber content. The decrease in strength is mostly reasoned due to
incomplete consolidation.
ALHOZAIMY, A.M., ET AL (1995)
Alhozaimy, A.M., et al (1995) carried out experimental investigations on the

effects of adding low volume fractions (<0.3%) of calculated fibrillated
polypropylene fibres in concrete on compressive flexural and impact strength
with different binder compositions. They observed that polypropylene fibres
have no significant effect on compressive (or) flexural strength, while flexural
toughness and impact resistance showed increased values. They also observed
that positive interactions were also detected between fibres and pozzolans.
BENTUR, (2007). (HASAN ET AL., 2011 ROESLER ET AL. (2006),
Bentur, (2007). (Hasan Et Al., 2011 Roesler Et Al. (2006), the addition of
polypropylene fibres does not have a significant effect on the direct tensile
cracking strength (Bentur, 2007). However, in moderate volume replacements
(0.33-0.5%) the addition of macro-synthetic polypropylene fibres showed a 10
to 15% increase in splitting tensile strength.

2.2 STUDIES ON REPLACEMENT OF CEMENT BY USING

POLYPROPYLENE FIBRE
MYLAVARAPU PHANI SEKHAR et al (JUNE 2017)

Hyposludge was used as a replacement to cement. Replacement percentages
used during the present study were 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%. For each
replacement percentage of cement with hyposludge, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4% of
Recron 3s fibres were added and specimens were cast to determine the
mechanical properties. Compressive strengths of cubes were found on the 28th
day. The 28th day split tensile strength of the specimens was found on the
cylinders. The flexural strength of the specimens was found on the 28th day.
It is found that addition of hyposludge and Recron 3s fibres have beneficial
effects on the mechanical properties of concrete.
From the results, it is found that the optimal replacement percentage of cement
with hyposludge is found to be 30% when Recron 3s fibers are not added.
On addition of Recron 3s fiber with cement matrix, the compressive strength
and split tensile strength decrease with increase in fiber content, however the
flexural strength increases with increase in fiber content.
When hyposludge and Recron 3s fiber are added, the optimum dosage of
Hyposludge is 20% and optimum Fiber content is 0.4%.
RATHINA KALA.T et al (MARCH 2016)

Recron-3s is a polypropylene monofilament, discrete, discontinuous short
fiber that can be used in concrete to control and arrest cracks. During the
present study, an attempt is made to study the various mechanical properties
of concrete containing sludge and Recron 3s fibers. Fly ash was used as a
replacement to cement. Replacement percentages used during the present
study were 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%. For each replacement percentage of
cement with, 0.0%,0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4% of Recron 3s fibers were added and
specimens were cast to determine the mechanical properties. Compressive
strengths of cubes were found on the 7th day and 28th day. The 7th day and

28th day split tensile strength of the specimens was found on the cylinders.
The flexural strength of the specimens was found on the 7th day and 28th day.
It is found that addition of fly ash and Recron 3s fibers have beneficial effects
on the mechanical properties of concrete.
From the results, it is found that the optimal replacement percentage of cement
with fly ash is 30% when Recron 3s fibers are not added.
When sludge and Recron 3s fiber are added, the optimum dosage of fly ash is
20% and optimum Recron 3s fiber content is 0.4%.
The usage of fly ash will reduce the ill effects on the environment. It is
recommended over the ordinary concrete as it considerably saves cement and
also prevents environmental pollution.
Usage of Recron 3s fiber will reduce the cost of maintenance by reducing the
micro cracks and permeability and hence the durability will increase. It is
found that use of Recron 3s fiber reduces the segregation
2.3 CONCLUDING REMARKS ON REVIEW OF LITERATURE
In this present experimental investigation is aimed to study the behaviour & strength
of concrete by adding polypropolene recron fibre and comparing with the
conventional M60 grade concrete. Which includes 3 concrete material 1. M60 (M60
grade of concrete) 2. Polypropolene recorn fibre. 3. Flyash. (polypropolene recron
fibre and fly ash combined with M60 grade of concrete).
From the experimental result it is absorbed that the concrete matrix made with M-
60+PF+FA enhanced strength & properties of fiber reinforced concrete that is
compression, tensile & flexural strength as compared to M60, the strength
characteristics increases with increase in the % of fibre but reduction in the
workability of the mix.

CHAPTER 3
MATERIALS AND METHODOLOGY
3.1 CEMENT
Cement is an extremely fine-grounded material with adhesive and cohesive
properties and acts as a binding material in concrete.
The properties of concrete are very much influenced with the properties of
cement, hence if it of worth importance to know the cement properties. Following are
the main tests conducted to know the cement properties.
a. Standard consistency test.
b. Initial setting time
c. Final setting time
d. Specific gravity.
Tests on Cement
a. Standard consistency test
In order to find out the initial setting time, finial setting time, soundness and
compressive strength, a parameter is established which is known as standard
consistency.
It can be defined as the consistency, which will permit Vicat plunger to
penetrate to a depth of 5 to 7 mm from bottom of Vicat mould.
Procedure: Take about 500gms, of cement and prepare its paste with 26% water. Put
the paste into Vicat mould and smooth the top surface. The mould is shaken to expel
air. Lower the plunger and note its depth of penetration. Try the paste with varying
water percentage 1% each time approaching consistency. The percentage of water
corresponding to the penetration depth 5 to 7 mm from bottom of mould will be the
standard consistency of cement and is generally denoted by P.
Result: normal consistency of cement=32%
b. Initial setting time

The time at which cement paste loses its plasticity after addition of water is
known as initial setting time.

Procedure
Take about 500gms of cement; add 0.85P water (where P standard consistency). Fill
the mould with prepared paste and smooth the surface. Keep the needle just touching
the surface. Release it and note the penetration depth. Repeat the procedure until the
needle fails to pierced the paste in the mould 5 to 7 mm from bottom; this will be
initial setting time.
Result: initial setting time of cement=50min
c. Finial setting time:

The time corresponding to paste becoming a hard mass is known as final setting time.
Procedure:
After noting initial setting time, go on checking for finial setting time after
every one hour, for first four hours and them according to the impression. Check for
finial setting time after a few minutes interval. Cement is supposed to be finally set a
needle makes an impression but attachment fails to do so.
d. Specific gravity
Specific gravity is the ratio of the density of substance to the density of a
reference substance. Specific gravity is needed in calculation of soil properties like
void ratio, degree of saturation. This property is very important in the mix design.
Procedure
It is determined by correlated the weights of cement, water, and kerosene.
Since, the cement on mixing with the water hardens, it is mixed with kerosene and the
corresponding weight is used for specific gravity determination.
Table 3.1 Calibrating specific gravity of Cement

Weight
Sl no CONENT (gms)
1 Wt. of density 48
2 Wt. of density bottle + 1/3 of cement 91
Wt. of density bottle + cement +

3 kerosene 65
4 Wt. of density bottle + kerosene 80
5 Wt of density bottle + water 20
6 Specific gravity of kerosene 0.79
7 Specific gravity of cement 3.15
Result: Specific gravity of cement=3.15

3.2 FINE AGGEREGATES
Aggregates are important constituents of concrete and they constitute 75 to
80% of total volume of concrete. They reduce shrinkage and effect economy to a great
extent. As aggregates are main part of a body in concrete, its properties affect the
economy to a great extent.
Following are the properties of aggregates, which effect concrete.
i. Size
Largest maximum size that can be under given set of conditions should be used.
Using largest size will result in:

➢
Reduction in water content.
➢
Reduction in drying shrinkage.
Generally 80mm is the largest size of aggregates in concrete, which is generally used.
ii. Shape
Shape of aggregate is an important characteristic since it affects workability
of concrete. As per shape they are classified as rounded irregular or partly rounded,
angular, flaky. The angular aggregates are generally preferred as compared to other
due to their durability and strength in concrete and good binding capacity
iii. Texture
Generally rough texture aggregates are preferred as compared to smooth due
to their good binding capacity. Rough texture increases the surface area, which
increases the bonding strength of concrete.
iv. Strength
Strength of aggregates is defined as the resistance to given set of forces. It is
measured as its crushing value i.e. resistance to crushing loads and impact value.
Table 3.2 Calibrating specific gravity of fine aggregateS

Description Readings
Weight of Pycnometer (W1), grams 645
Weight of Pycnometer+1/3rd of FA (W2), grams 1028
Weight of Pycnometer+1/3rd of FA+ water (W3), grams 1745
Weight of Pycnometer + water (W4), grams 1509
Specific gravity of fine aggregates= (W2-W1)/((W4-W1)-(W3-W2))

= (1028-645)/((1028-645)-(1745-1509))

= 2.6
3.3 COARSE AGGEREGATES

When the aggregate is sieved through 4.75mm sieve ,the aggregate retained is called
coarse aggregate. Gravel ,cobble and boulders come under this category. the
maximum size aggregate used may be dependent upon some conditions. In
general,40mm size aggregate used for normal strengths and 20mm size is used for
high strength concrete.
i. Size
Largest maximum size that can be under given set of conditions should be used.
Using largest size will result in:
➢
Reduction in water content.
➢
Reduction in drying shrinkage.
Generally 80mm is the largest size of aggregates in concrete, which is generally used.
ii. Shape
Shape of aggregate is an important characteristic since it affects workability
of concrete. As per shape they are classified as rounded irregular or partly rounded,
angular, flaky. The angular aggregates are generally preferred as compared to other
due to their durability and strength in concrete and good binding capacity
iii. Texture
Generally rough texture aggregates are preferred as compared to smooth due
to their good binding capacity. Rough texture increases the surface area, which
increases the bonding strength of concrete.
iv. Strength
Strength of aggregates is defined as the resistance to given set of forces. It is
measured as its crushing value i.e. resistance to crushing loads and impact value.

vi. Specific gravity of coarse aggregates

Table 3.3 Calibrating specific gravity of coarse aggregates
Description Readings
Weight of dry sample (W1), grams 3000
Weight of basket in water (W2), grams 1400
Weight of sample + basket (W3), grams 3280
Weight of oven dried aggergates (W4), grams 2990
Bulk Specific gravity = (W1)/((W1)-(W3-W2))

= (3000)/((3000)-(3280-1400))
= 2.67
Apparent Specific gravity = (W4)/((W4)-(W3-W2))
= (2990)/((2990)-(3280-1400))
= 2.68
Percentage absorption = (W1-W4)/(W4)X100

= (3000-2990)/(2900)X100
= 0.35%

CHAPTER 4
EXPERIMENTAL PROGRAMME
4.1 Introduction
In this chapter, we have dealt with the systematic testing of fresh concrete and
hardened concrete which forms an inseparable part of any quality controlled program
to achieve high efficiency of the material used and greater assurance of the
performance of concrete with regard to both strength and durability. Test procedures
are as per the requirement of bureau of Indian standards.
This chapter deals with the methodologies in this report. The properties of
cement like standard consistency, specific gravity, fineness etc., and the properties of
fine aggregates and coarse aggregates like specific gravity, grain size, water
absorption etc., is calculated. According to the above properties of materials as per
ACI 211.4R-93, the proportions of water: cement: fine aggregates : coarse aggregates
for grade M60 is executed. Concrete cubes of size 150*150*150mm and cylinders of
size 200 mm length, 100mm diameter are casted in standard iscm moulds (for
polypropylene fibres) as per obtained mix proportions and respective grade. The
concrete cubes, prism and cylinders are tested under ctm for 3,7 and 28 days of curing
to know the compressive, flexural and split tensile strengths.
4.2 Tests on fresh concrete
The tests on fresh concrete are workability tests. The variation of workability
of fresh concrete is measured in terms of slump, compaction factor and vee-bee
consistometer tests with water cement ratio. For the given water cement ratio, the
highest slumps and compaction factors were recorded for the mixes designed by ACI
211.4R-93 method. The overall workability of polypropylene fibre reinforced
concrete is less compared to conventional concrete.
1) Slump: slump test is most commonly used method of measuring
consistency of concrete which can be employed in laboratory or at a site
of work. It is not suitable method for very wet or dry concrete. It does not
measure all factors contributing to workability, nor is it always
representative of the placibility of concrete. However, it is used

conveniently as a controlled test and given a indication of the uniformity

of concrete from batch to batch.
2) Compaction factor: this test is designed primarily for use in the laboratory
but it can also be used in the field. It is more precise and sensitsive than
the slump test and is particularly useful for concrete mixes of very low
workability as are normally used when concrete is to be compacted by
vibration.
4.3 Tests on hardened concrete
The tests conducted on hardened concrete are discussed briefly in the following
articles.
1) Compressive strength test: the compressive strength of various mix cubes
were recorded after crushing under CTM. The size of cubes is 150 x 150
x 150mm. The specimens cured for 3, 7, 28 days are crushed and the
pertaining loads at ultimate (break) compression are calculated.
2) Split tensile strength test: the split tensile strength of various mix cylinders
were recorded after crushing under split tensile machine. The size of
cylinders is 200mm length and 100mm diameter. The specimens cured for
3, 7, 28 days are crushed and the pertaining loads at ultimate(break) split
tensile are calculated.
3) Flexure strength test: : the flexure strength of various mix beams were
recorded after crushing under UTM. The size of beam is 100 x 100 x
500mm. The specimens cured for 3, 7, 28 days are crushed and the
pertaining loads at ultimate (break) flexure are calculated.
Laboratory work
Standard sized coarse aggregates 20mm-10mm and sand 4.75mm are taken
for casting. Ordinary Portland cement is selected. Clean water (potable) used for
making concrete.
Procedure
Clean and non absorbent platform is selected for mixing materials. Required
amount of sand is weighed and spread on the platform uniformly. Weighed cement is
put on the sand and mixed well using trowel and other instruments. In the same

manner the coarse aggregate, so the mix becomes easily workable.

Casting of concrete cubes and cylinders
1) Concrete cube moulds of dimension 150*150*150mm and cylinder
moulds of dimension 100mm diameter and 200mm height is taken
2) The inner surfaces of moulds are applied grease or oiled with brush.
3) Moulds are placed on level platform.
4) Concrete is filled in moulds in 3-4 layers.
5) Each layer is tamped by 25 strokes using tamping rod.
6) Moulds are placed on a mechanical vibrator for about 3-5 minutes for
expelling of entrapped air in concrete.
7) Top surface is made level with trowel.
8) After 24 hours the cubes and cylinders are de-moulded.
Curing procedure
Two types of curing were used. These were water and air curing. In water
curing, the specimens were immersed under water. No lime was used to saturate the
water. In air curing, the specimens were exposed to dry air. In both curing methods,
the curing temperature was maintained at 18-22 degree Celsius. The cubes and
cylinder specimens were cured until 3, 7, 28 days. Moreover, the cubes and cylinder
specimens were subjected to water curing only.
Testing of concrete specimens
1) After curing the concrete moulds are taken to the ctm.
2) The tests are done for 3, 7, 28 days of curing.
3) Cylinders are placed between the plates of a ctm in such a way that the
axis of cylinder is perpendicular to the application of load.
4) The load is applied until the failure of the specimen.
5) At failure corresponding value of load is noted down.
6) The average of 3 readings is the compressive strength for cubes and split
tensile strength for cylinders.

4.4 CONCRETE MIX DESIGN FOR M60 GRADE CONCRETE

Design Stipulations:
I. Characteristics compressive strength at 28 days = 60 N/mm2

II. Maximum size of aggregate =20mm
III. Type of aggregate = crushed rock (granite)
Data obtained from tests on Ingredients in the laboratory:
i. Cement - Ordinary Portland cement 53.
a. Specific gravity of cement = 3.15
ii. Aggregates
a. Specific gravity
Coarse aggregate = 2.68
Fine aggregate = 2.60
b. Free surface moisture
Coarse aggregate = Nil
Fine aggregate = Nil
c. Dry rodded density
coarse aggregate = 1562kg/m³
Fine aggregate = 1690kg/m³
d. Specific gravity of fly ash = 2.2
e. Specific gravity of polypropylene fiber = 0.9
f. Maximun quantity of cement content = 450kg/m³
4.5 MIX DESIGN
1. Selection of slump and required strength (2.2 ACI 221)
Psi = 0.0068Mpa
𝑓𝑐𝑘 60
= = 8823.52Psi
0.0068 0.0068
Average compressive strength

fc+400
Fcr =
0.9
8823.52+1400
= 0.9

= 11359.47Psi
Fcr = 11359.47 x 0.0068 = 77.24Mpa
⸫ From table 4.3.1 of ACI 211 code adopt slump value of 25mm t0 50mm
2. Selecting maximum size of aggregates
From table 4.3.2 (ACI 211),
˃9000psi
Use 3/8 t0 1/2
⸫ chose 20mm size aggregates
The recommended maximum size of aggregate when HRWR is used.
Compressive strength range between 9000psi to 12000psi
3. Selection of optimum coarse aggregate content.
Nominal size of aggregate (MSA) 20mm (3/4)
Fraction volume by oven dry rodded = 0.72
Obtained dry rodded of coarse aggregate = 1562kg/m³
Coarse aggregate content = 0.72 x 1562 = 1124.64kg/m³
4. Estimation of mixing water and air content for 20mm (3/4)
Mixing water = 285lb/yd³
lb/yd³ = 0.59kg/m³
mixing water = 285 x 0.59 = 168.15kg/m³
Entrapped air content = 1.5% (15kg/m³)
oven dry rodded unit weight

Voids =1 - x 100
bulk specific gravity of fine aggregate x 1000
1690
=1- x 100
2.6 x 1000
= 35%
Void content = (V -35) x 8
= (35 -35) x 8
=0
Total water content = 168.15kg/m³

5. Selection of water-binder ratio.
From table 4.3.5(b) (ACI 211),
We have frc = 11359.47psi
For psi 11359.47,
11000 – 0.27
11395.47 – x
12000 – 0.25
(11359.47−11000)x(0.25−0.27)
X= + 0.27
(12000−11000)
X= 0.263
W
+ P = 0.263
C
6. Calculation of cementitious material

W 168.15
W =
+P 0.263
C
= 639.35kg/m³
Cement + fly ash = 639.35kg/m³
Maximum cement content = 450kg/m³
⸫ fly ash = 639.35 - 450
=189.35kg/m³
Fly ash at 20% of total cementitious material
Class F
20/100 x 639.35 = 127.87kg/m³
7. Calculation of fine aggregate

Fine aggregate

𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑐𝑜𝑎𝑟𝑠𝑒 𝑎𝑔𝑔𝑟𝑒𝑔𝑎𝑡𝑒 𝑓𝑙𝑦 𝑎𝑠ℎ

= 1000- 𝑠𝑝.𝑔𝑟.𝑐𝑒𝑚𝑒𝑛𝑡 + 𝑠𝑝.𝑔𝑟.𝑐𝑜𝑎𝑟𝑠𝑒 𝑎𝑔𝑔𝑟𝑒𝑔𝑎𝑡𝑒 + 𝑤𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟 +
𝑠𝑝.𝑔𝑟.𝑓𝑙𝑦 𝑎𝑠ℎ
𝑎𝑖𝑟 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑡
=1000- ((450/315) + (1124.64/2.68) + (189.35/2.2) + 168.15 + 15)
= 168.28kg/m³
Fine aggregate = 168.28 x 2.6 = 437.5kg
8. Mix proportion
W
Cement : fly ash : fine aggregate : coarse aggregate : + P : water
C
450 189.35 437.53 1124.64 168.15

: : : : 0.263 :
450 450 450 450 450
Cement : fly ash : FA : CA (w/c = 0.37)
1 : 0.42 : 0.97: 2.
4.6 CONCRETE MIXING

Carrying out hand mixing of concrete requires special skills and care during the
process for quality control of fresh concrete. The precautions and the correct way of
performing hand mixing of concrete is to undergo the mixing process as
recommended by the standard procedures. concrete is mixed by any methods, based
on requirement as per quality and quantity of concrete required. Normally for mass
concrete ,where good quality of concrete is required ,mechanical mixer is used.
Mixing by hand employed only to specific cases where quality control is no not much
importance and quantity of concrete required is less. Stone aggregate is washed with
water to remove dirt ,dust or any other foreign material before mixing.
The main purpose of mixing the concrete is to finally obtain a uniform mixture that
shows uniformity in terms of color and consistency.
Procedure of hand mixing of concrete:
Hand mixing should be done on a smooth ,clean and water tight platform of suitable
size in the following manner
1. Measured quantity of sand is spread evenly.
2. The required quantity of cement is dumped on the sand and spread evenly.
3. The sand and cement is then mixed intimately with spade, turning the mixture over
and over again until it is of even color throughout and free from streaks.

4. The sand cement mixture is then spread out and measured quantity of coarse
aggregate is spread on its top. Alternatively, the measured quantity of coarse
aggregate is spread out and the sand cement mixture is then spread on its top.
5. The whole mass should be mixed at last three times by shoveling and turning over
by twist from center to side, then back to the center and again to the sides.
6. A hollow is made in the middle of the mixed pile.
7. Three quarters of the total quantity of water required should be added while the
materials are turned in towards the center with spades .The remaining water is added
by a water-can fitted with rose head ,slowly turning the whole mixture over and over
again until a uniform color and consistency is obtained throughout the pile.
8. 5% extra cement shall be added than the specified for machine mixing ,when hand
mix cement concrete is produced .
9. The required PPEs(PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT)shall be worn by
the labors and masons while mixing and handling the concrete
10. The mixing platform should be washed at the end of the day

CHAPTER 5
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
GENERAL
In this chapter, we refer it as experimental methodology and laboratory work. In
these concrete cubes of size 150 x 150 x150 mm, cylinders of size 100mm diameter
and 200mm length and prism of size 500mm length 100mm breadth and depth are
casted ISCM moulds as per obtained mix proportions and respective grades. The
concrete cubes & cylinders are tested under compression testing machine (CTM) for
3 days, 7 days and 28 days of curing to know the compressive and split tensile
strengths and in flexural test machine to know flexural strength. The results obtained
of the various tests have been systematically represented in the form of tables and
comparative study has been taken up at the required stages and has been indicated in
the form of graphs.
5.1 COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH TEST RESULT
Compressive strength test results are as given in the following tables for various
percentages of fibres.
5.1.1 Test Results of 3 Days Compressive Strength without Fibres
Size of cubes: 150mm x 150mm x 150mm
Table 5.1 Test results of 3 days Compressive strength without fibres
Sl. No. Load in KN Compressive strength Avg. Compressive
(N/mm2) strength (N/mm2)
1 470.5 20.91
2 450.7 20.32 20.55
3 459.85 20.44

5.1.2 Test Results of 3Days Compressive Strength with Fibres (RECRON 3s)
(0.15%, 0.20% & 0.25% of RECRON 3s)
Table 5.2 Test results of 3days Compressive strength with fibres
Cube Weight (kg) Load (kg) % of fiber Result (N/mm²)
No.
1 7.870 350 0.15 15.55
2 7.370 180 0.20 8.0
3 7.870 380 0.25 16.89
5.1.3 Test Results of 7Days Compressive Strength without Fibres

Table 5.3 Test results of 7days Compressive strength without fibres
Sl. No. Load in KN Compressive Avg. Compressive
strength (N/mm2) strength (N/mm2)
1 663.75 29.5
2 657.52 29.22 29.36
3 660.65 29.36

5.1.4 Test Results of 7Days Compressive Strength with Fibres (RECRON 3s)
(0.15%, 0.20% & 0.25% of RECRON 3s)
No.
1 7.870 460 0.15 20.44
2 7.260 230 0.20 10.22
3 7.760 450 0.25 20.00
5.1.5 Test Results of 28Days Compressive Strength without Fibres

Table 5.5 Test results of 28 days Compressive strength without fibres
Sl. No. Load in KN Compressive strength Avg. Compressive
1 731.25 32.5
2 735.75 32.7 32.6
3 733.55 32.60

5.1.6Test Results of 28Days Compressive Strength with Fibres (RECRON 3s)

(0.15%, 0.20% & 0.25% of RECRON 3s)
No.
1 7.860 760 0.15 33.80
2 7.290 350 0.20 15.55
3 7.870 510 0.25 22.66
COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH TEST

40
COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH
35
30
25
N/MM2
20 0.15% OF FIBRE
0.20% FIBRE
15
0.25% OF FIBRE
10
5
0
3 Days 7 Days 28 Days
5.1 COMPRESSION STRENGTH GRAPH

5.2 SPLIT TENSILE STRENGTH TEST RESULTS

Split tensile strength test results are as given in the following tables for various
percentages of fibres.
5.2.1 Test Results of 3Days split tensile Strength without Fibres
Size of cylinders: 100mm diameter and 200mm height
Table 5.7 Test results of 3days split tensile strength without fibres
Sl. No. Load in KN Split tensile strength Avg. Split tensile
1 63.76 2.02
2 65.86 2.09 2.03
3 62.51 1.98
5.2.2 Test Results of 3days split tensile Strength with Fibre (RECRON 3s)
(0.15%, 0.20% & 0.25% of RECRON 3s)
No.
1 12.14 180 0.15 2.54
2 11.64 50 0.20 0.707
3 12.20 140 0.25 1.98


Table 5.9 Test results of 7days split tensile strength without fibres
Sl. No. Load in KN Split tensile strength Avg.Splittensile
1 88.57 2.81
2 90.21 2.87 2.81
3 86.57 2.75
5.2.4 Test Results of 7Days split tensile Strength with Fibre (RECRON 3s)
(0.15%, 0.20% & 0.25% of RECRON 3s)
No.
1 12.22 250 0.15 3.53
2 11.73 100 0.20 1.41
3 12.09 200 0.25 2.89


Table 5.11 Test results of 28 days split tensile strength without fibres
Sl. No. Load in KN Split tensile strength Avg. Split tensile
1 97.31 3.09
2 99.21 3.15 3.09
3 95.91 3.05
5.2.6 Test Results of 28Days split tensile Strength with Fibre (RECRON 3s)
(0.15%, 0.20% & 0.25% of RECRON 3s)
No.
1 12.20 270 0.15 3.82
2 11.56 120 0.20 1.7
3 12.18 240 0.25 3.4

SPLIT TENSILE TEST

4.5
4
3.5
TENSILE STRENGTH
N/MM2 3
2.5 0.15% OF FIBRE
2 0.20% OF FIBRE
1.5 0.25% OF FIBRE
1
0.5
0
5.2 SPLIT TENSILE STRENGTH TEST GRAPH
5.3 FLEXURAL STRENGTH TEST RESULTS

Flexural strength test results are as given in the following tables for various
percentages of fibres
5.3.1 Test Results of 3Days flexural Strength with Fibre (RECRON 3s)
(0.15%, 0.20% & 0.25% of RECRON 3s)
Table 5.13 Test results of 3Days flexural strength with fibres
No.
1 12.67 5 0.15 0.125
2 11.21 2.5 0.20 0.0625
3 11.83 3.5 0.25 0.0875

(0.15%, 0.20% & 0.25% of RECRON 3s)
No.
1 12.26 12.5 0.15 0.312
2 11.90 5.0 0.20 0.125
3 12.060 7.0 0.25 0.175
(0.15%, 0.20% & 0.25% of RECRON 3s)
No.
1 12.78 12.0 0.15 0.300
2 11.30 8.0 0.20 0.200
3 11.53 8.5 0.25 0.212

FLEXURAL STRENGTH TEST

0.35
0.3
FLEXURAL STRENGTH
0.25
0.2
N/MM2
0.15% OF FIBRE
0.15 0.20% OF FIBRE

0.25% OF FIBRE
0.1
0.05
0
5.3 FLEXURAL STRENGTH TEST GRAPH

CHAPTER 6
SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION
It can be concluded that the workability of the fibre reinforced concrete has
been found to decrease with an increase in the concentration of recron 3s fibre
in the concrete mix. Recron 3s recorded positive influence on enhancing
compressive, tensile and flexural strength with superiority of 0.25% recron
3s.
Polypropylene fibers enhance the strength of concrete, without causing the
well-known problems, normally associated with steel fibers. The durability of
concrete improves and addition of polypropylene fibers greatly improves the
fracture parameters of concrete.28 days curing recorded maximum strength
irrespective of different levels of natural and artificial fibres under study.
Study revealed significant superiority of 0.25% recron 3s exhibiting highest
compressive strength of 51 MPa after 28 days of curing
Study of conventional concrete mix blended with artificial fibres revealed
superiority of fibres in improving the tensile strength. For recron 3s there has
been constant increase in tensile strength up to 0.25% to the tune of 21.25%
after 28 days.
Study of conventional concrete mix with concrete mix reinforced using fibres
revealed superiority of 0.25% recron 3s showing an increase of flexural
strength by 33.99% after 28 days of curing
Incorporation of Recron 3s fibre in concrete enhances the continuity and
integrity of concrete thereby increasing long-term tensile strength, which is
beneficial to the safety and durability of concrete structures.
Polypropylene fibers reduce the water permeability, plastic, shrinkage and
settlement and carbonation depth.
From the result of this research, it was found that the use of fiber in the
concrete decreases the workability of the fresh concrete Evidence of low
workability was shown through the results of workability test obtained in
standard slump test. It was concluded that the increasing percentage volume
of fiber added into the concrete would lead the workability decreased. High
volume dosage rate above 1.0% showed that the concrete was significantly
stiff and difficult to compact. However it also reduced the bleeding and
segregation in the concrete mixture.
It was also seen that the loss in weight and loss/gain in compressive strength
of the cube specimens improved with age. Compressive strength of concrete
increases with increase in fiber dosage up to 0.25%. In splitting tensile strength
test, it was found that tensile strength was significantly improved only for
0.15% of fiber dosage and as the percentage of fiber volume dosage increases
a continues drop of strength was observed.
In flexure strength the improvement in the behavior due to the addition of the
PPF is the similar to that in tensile strength. Hence we may conclude that the
optimum value of fibre content is 0.15% for both tensile strength and flexural
strength.
As per the current demand of construction industry new types of concrete are
to be invented, which will satisfy the problems observed in traditional
concrete. In this approach PPFRC will be a good substitute to meet the present
demand of construction industry.

CHAPTER 7
SCOPE FOR FURTHER STUDIES
Further research in this field can be aimed at studying the following aspects:
➢
The workability, compressive strength and tensile strength can be increased
by addition of recron 3s fibres along with super-plasticizers.
➢
This methodology can be applied in earthquake resistant structures.
➢
The crack pattern can be studied using fracture mechanics.
➢
Stress-strain curve can be plotted and their behavior can be studied.
➢
The flexural strength can be determined.

CHAPTER 8
REFERENCES
➢ Alhozaimy, A. M., Soroushian, P., & Mirza, F. (1996). Mechanical properties
of polypropylene fiber reinforced concrete and the effects of pozzolanic
materials. Cement and Concrete Composites, 18(2), 85-92.
➢
Alhozaimy, a.m., et al (1995)
➢
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EXPERIMENTAL STUDY ON POLYPROPYLENE FIBRE-REINFORCED CONCRETE 2020

SL.N0 CONTENTS PAGE.NO

1 CHAPTER 1: Consist general introduction, composite materials like fibres 02-14

2 CHAPTER 2: Discusses the cirtical reviews of literature on materials, 15-20

3 CHAPTER 3: This chapter concludes materials and methodology. 21-26

6 CHAPTER 6: This chapter concludes summary and conclusion . 45-46

7 CHAPTER 7: This chapter concludes suggestions and scope.. 47

8 CHAPTER 8: This chapter concludes references. 48-49

DEPT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, UVCE Page 1

As modern Engineering practices become more demanding, there is an

Developments in concrete technology have yielded new types of cements and

DEPT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, UVCE Page 2

1.1.1 TYPES OF FIBRES

1.1.1.1 RECRON 3S:

DEPT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, UVCE Page 3

1.1.1.2 STEEL FIBRE:

DEPT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, UVCE Page 4

TABLE: 1.1 TYPICAL PROPERTIES OF FIBERS

Acrylic 30-60 0.3 25-45 1.1

Asbestos 80-140 12-20 ~0.6 3.2

Cotton 60-100 0.7 3-10 1.5

Glass 150-550 10 1.5-3.5 2.5

Nylon(high tenacity) 110-120 0.6 16-20 1.1

Polyester(high 105-125 1.2 11-13 1.4

Polyethylene ~100 0.02-0.06 ~10 0.95

Polypropylene 80-110 0.5 ~25 0.90

Rayon(high 60-90 1.0 10-25 1.5

Rock 70-110 10-17 ~0.6 2.7

Steel 40-400 29 0.5-35 7.8

DEPT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, UVCE Page 5

TABLE: 1.2 PROPERTIES OF RECRON 3s FIBRES

1 Specific gravity 0.91

2 Bulk density 910 kg/cumec

3 Water absorption Nil

4 Tensile strength 0.67 KN/Sq mm

6 Dosage 0.25% by weight of cement

DEPT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, UVCE Page 6

FIGURE-1 RECRON 3S FIBRES

1.2 FIBER REINFORCED CONCRETE

DEPT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, UVCE Page 8

1.3 GENERAL TERMS USED IN FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE

DEPT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, UVCE Page 9

specified impact conditions.

1.4 PROPERTIES OF FRC

This leads to distortion and agglomeritation of fibres, difficulties of

DEPT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, UVCE Page 10

compaction and non-uniform distribution of fibres in the concrete mix, resulting in

DEPT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, UVCE Page 11

1.5 FACTORS AFFECTING PROPERTIES OF FIBRE REINFORCED

1.5.1 RELATIVE FIBRE MATRIX STIFFNESS

1.5.2 VOLUME OF FIBRES

1.5.3 ASPECT RATIO OF THE FIBRE

DEPT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, UVCE Page 12

1.6 SCOPE OF THE WORK

DEPT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, UVCE Page 13

1.7 EXPERIMENTAL METHODOLOGY

DEPT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING, UVCE Page 14

2.1 STUDIES ON COMPRESSION, TENSILE & FLEXURAL STRENGTH OF

KORRAPATI ANIL KUMAR et al (SEP 2017)

The compressive strength of M40 concrete at 28 days increased with the