Effect of Normal, Calcium Chloride Integral and Polyethene Sheet Membrane Curing on the Strength Characteristics of Glass Fiber and Normal Concrete

Abstract

AbstractCompressive strength of concrete is more when compared to its tensile strength. Fiber inclusion improves the tensile strength and the compressive strength of concrete. Many researchers have included the fiber in the concrete and positive results were obtained. In this study, Alkali resistant glass fibers are added in different proportions (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5 and 4%) to the concrete. Compressive and tensile strength of the specimens were then determined. The optimum glass fiber percentage is obtained by comparing the compressive strength and tensile strength of the different specimens. Similarly the percentage of calcium chloride to be added to the concrete for calcium chloride integral curing was also determined. Different percentages like 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5 and 3% of calcium chloride were added. The optimum percentage was determined by identifying the concrete mix with the highest compressive strength. Different polythene sheets of various colors (Black, Blue, White and Pink) were used as membranes for curing. Compressive strength after 28 days was then obtained and the best suitable color of the membrane was identified. Both normal concrete and glass fiber concrete were then cured by normal curing, calcium chloride integral curing and polythene membrane curing. The strength characteristics of both normal and glass fiber concrete were then identified after curing for 7, 14 and 28 days.KeywordsFiber reinforced concreteCalcium chloride integral curingMembrane curing