Experimental study on mechanical properties of shredded prepreg carbon cloth waste fiber reinforced concrete

Abstract

The incorporation of sustainable and eco-friendly materials in the construction industry has become a crucial pursuit in recent years. Prepreg carbon cloth waste (PCCW), a byproduct of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) manufacturing process, presents an opportunity for recycling and reducing environmental impact. This research explores the feasibility and mechanical properties of concrete reinforced by shredded prepreg carbon cloth waste (SPCCW) fiber of random sizes. High-speed crusher is applied to manufacture the SPCCW fibers and a comprehensive experimental investigation is conducted to evaluate the effects of varying SPCCW fiber content on the mechanical performances of the concrete. To achieve these objectives, several concrete mixtures with different SPCCW fiber dosages (0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, and 2% by volume) are designed, prepared, and subjected to SEM analysis and a series of mechanical property tests. The results indicate that as the proportion of SPCCW fiber increases, the slump gradually decreases; at a content of 1% the compressive strength and splitting tensile strength exhibit the greatest enhancements with increases of 20.9% and 14.3% respectively; the optimal enhancement for axial compressive strength is observed at a dosage of 1.5% resulting in an increase of 17.4%. Based on the analysis of workability and various mechanical properties, it can be concluded that an acceptable SPCCW fiber dosage is 1%, with the maximum limit being 1.5%.