Mechanical Properties of Natural as well as Synthetic Fiber Reinforced Concrete: A Review

Abstract

Fibers have been utilized in the production of building materials for a very long time. Preliminary studies and examinations have revealed that the use of natural and synthetic fibers can yield remarkable outcomes, as their presence demonstrates substantial advantages in terms of the mechanical properties of the composite material. Natural fiber reinforcement is substantially more beneficial in terms of energy and economic values than conventional reinforcement bars because the ratio of fiber needed is significantly smaller in natural fiber reinforcement than traditional reinforcement. Recently, natural and synthetic fibers have been investigated for their potential as reinforcement in building material, particularly concrete. The present study discussed the various techniques to enhance the properties of natural fibers used in concrete. Additionally, our study demonstrated that incorporating fibers with the priority of synthetic fibers into construction materials can help ease these problems while also promoting ecologically friendly and long-term solutions that are effective in the industry. Moreover, this study aimed to examine the types, qualities, and applications of various natural and synthetic fibers used in a wide range of construction materials, more specifically concrete. Moreover, this study discussed the mechanical properties of concrete reinforced by natural as well as synthetic fibers. It can be concluded that majority of researchers reported that mechanical performance of concrete increased with fibers up to 1.0% addition and further addition of fibers decreased mechanical performance of concrete due to lack of workability. Therefore, it is recommended that 1.0% fiber can be used to improved the tensile capacity of concrete.