Civil Engineering Materials Research Articles

Discussion on the Teaching Reform and Practice of “Civil Engineering Materials” under the Background of “New Engineering”

As a fundamental course in civil engineering, the reform and practice of “Civil Engineering Materials” are crucial for the development of the civil engineering discipline. This paper addresses previous teaching shortcomings and integrates the new requirements of “New Engineering” construction. It explores the reform of teaching methods for “Civil Engineering Materials” in five areas: optimization and integration of teaching content, adjustment of experimental content, application of online learning platforms, cultivation of students’ innovative abilities, and optimization of assessment methods. The paper offers constructive suggestions for the future development and practice of the course.

Using bearing ratio curves to quantify the surface roughness parameters of fly ash-teff straw ash-based geopolymer mortars

Considering the prominent attributes of surface roughness parameters, the closer their solutions are to real surfaces, the more appropriate they are for civil engineering applications. One of the steps that can be considered for such applications is to incorporate the bearing ratio curve (BRC) parameters in the study of civil engineering materials. In this research, the bearing ratio curves have been used for the first time to quantify the surface roughness attributes of fly ash-teff straw ash-based geopolymer mortars. For various cases, the roughness parameters in the V-group are compared with the roughness parameters in the Rk group, which contributes to the attractiveness of this research. The fly ash-teff straw ash-based geopolymer mortar specimens in this study are dominated by smooth surfaces, as evidenced by the Rvk and Rpk values of less than 0.21 μm for all specimens. The study highlights that if such surfaces are to be used in mortar-to-mortar bonding, imposed surface roughness could be required to enhance the bond strength of the layers. In addition, the results indicate that critical roughness parameters can be identified from the bearing ratio curves when a surface is undergoing roughness transformations. These findings provide a step towards the understanding of BRC parameters for fly ash-teff straw ash-based geopolymer mortar surfaces. Overall, the approach demonstrated in this study could also accelerate and promote the surface roughness characterisation for geopolymer mortars and could be extended to unlock peculiar surface roughness properties for other civil engineering materials.

Developing Videos Through Project-Based Learning: Improving Aviation Cadets’ Basic Airport Civil Engineering

This study aimed to explain project-based learning (PjBL) in the context of making airside and landside learning videos for aviation cadets and measure the effectiveness of the learning videos in improving their understanding of basic airport civil engineering material. This study used ADDIE development method to develop learning videos integrated in a project-based learning process with a quantitative approach. There were 48 cadets included in this study selected using a purposive sampling technique. A total of 24 cadets joined the control class taught using conventional learning method and a total of 24 cadets participated in the experimental class taught using PjBL by developing learning videos. Data were collected using needs analysis questionnaire, rating scale for understanding basic airport civil engineering material, and validation sheet. The obtained data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and t-test to address the research questions. Results showed that the cadets were able to develop valid learning videos through ADDIE procedure and they could increase their understanding on basic airport civil engineering significantly (F = 3.533; t = .969; p = .000).

Stress-Strain Behavior and Strength Development of High-Amount Phosphogypsum-Based Sustainable Cementitious Materials.

Phosphogypsum is a common industrial solid waste that faces the challenges of high stockpiling and low utilization rates. This study focuses on the mechanical properties and internal characteristics of cementitious materials with a high phosphogypsum content. Specifically, we examined the effects of varying amounts of ground granulated blast furnace slag (5-28%), fly ash (5-20%), and hydrated lime (0.5-2%) on the stress-strain curve, unconfined uniaxial compressive strength, and elastic modulus (E50) of these materials. The test results indicate that increasing the ground granulated blast furnace slag content can significantly enhance the mechanical properties of phosphogypsum-based cementitious materials. Additionally, increasing the fly ash content can have a similar beneficial effect with an appropriate amount of hydrated lime. Furthermore, microscopic analysis of the cementitious materials using a scanning electron microscope revealed that the high sulfate content in phosphogypsum leads to the formation of calcium aluminate as the main product. Concurrently, a continuous reaction of the raw materials contributes to the strength development of the cementitious materials over time. The results could provide a novel method for improving the reusing phosphogypsum amount in civil engineering materials.

Performance of geocell reinforced rubber sand mixtures under undrained triaxial test

Large quantities of scrap tires are produced by the automobile industry each year, which causes disposal challenges and impacts the environment. However, scrap tires exhibit various properties, including tensile strength, abrasion resistance, durability, thermal conductivity, elasticity, and more. Due to their versatile characteristics, these scrap tires can be utilized as construction materials for various civil engineering works to reduce their negative environmental effects and conserve natural resources. This study aims to understand the shear strength behaviours exhibited by geocell-reinforced mixtures of rubber and sand through the unconsolidated undrained triaxial test. Various parameters, including rubber sizes (425 μm to 12 mm), rubber contents (10% to 40% by volume), confining pressures (50 to 300 kPa), and geocell heights (0.2H to 0.8H, where H is the height of triaxial sample), were systematically examined to understand their impact on shear strength characteristics. The experimental findings reveal that deviatoric stress is enhanced with increasing confining pressure and rubber sizes. The maximum benefits of the rubber-sand mixture were observed at 30% rubber content. Geocell-reinforced rubber sand mixture has a higher shear strength with respect to the unreinforced mixture. Furthermore, the energy absorption capacity of the geocell-reinforced rubber sand mixtures was much better as compared to either the clean sand or rubber-sand mixture. The findings of this research demonstrate that geocellreinforced rubber sand mixtures are suitable for various geotechnical engineering works.

The Effects of Metakaolin on the Properties of Magnesium Sulphoaluminate Cement.

Magnesium sulphoaluminate (MSA) cement has good bonding properties and is suitable as an inorganic adhesive for repairing materials in civil engineering. However, there are still some problems with its use, such as its insufficient 1 day (d) strength and poor volumetric stability. This paper aims to investigate the influences of metakaolin (MK) on the physical and mechanical properties of magnesium sulphoaluminate (MSA) cement. The hydration products and microstructures of typical MSA cement samples were also analysed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The results showed that the addition of metakaolin reduces the fluidity and shortens the setting time of the MSA cement. The initial setting time and final setting time shortened maximally by 15-27 min and 25-48 min, respectively, with the addition of 10-30% metakaolin. Moreover, the compressive strength and flexural strength of the MSA cement improved significantly with the addition of 10-30% metakaolin at a curing age of 1 d. Compared with the compressive and flexural strengths of the control sample at 1 d, the compressive strengths of the modified samples showed obvious increases of 98%, 101%, and 109%, and the flexural strengths increased by 39%, 31%, and 26%, respectively, although they decreased slightly when the curing ages were 7 d, 14 d, and 28 d. The addition of 10% metakaolin improved the water resistance of the MSA cement immersed in water for 7 d and resulted in even higher water resistance at 28 d. The addition of 10-30% metakaolin improved the volumetric stability of the MSA cement with increasing dosages before 28 d of ageing. XRD and SEM-EDS analyses showed that the metakaolin accelerated the early hydration reaction and optimised the phase composition of the MSA cement. The results indicate that the addition of 10-20% metakaolin improved the strength after 1 d of ageing, water resistance, and volumetric stability of the MSA cement, providing theoretical support for the application of MAS cement as an inorganic bonding agent for repairing materials.

The Uses of Lightweight Material in Civil Engineering : A Review

A lightweight aggregate (LWA) is a group of aggregates with a relative density lower than normal density aggregates (natural sand, gravel, and crushed stone), sometimes referred to as low density aggregate. It is utilized for its reduced weight and exceptional qualities in sound reduction, fire resistance, insulation, and geotechnical applications LWA, or lightweight aggregate, is a cutting-edge construction material that is employed to decrease the overall weight of tall structures. Despite being lighter, it possesses a strength that is comparable to that of regular concrete. In recent times, there has been a significant surge in the use of lightweight aggregate in the field of building, mostly because of its exceptional performance in seismic situations. In addition, substituting natural aggregate with other industrial by-products and trash enables us to minimize the adverse environmental consequences. Laser wavelength ablation (LWA) has also been employed to address a wide range of geotechnical engineering challenges, including the transformation of soft and unstable soil into a suitable and usable property. Lightweight fillings have a weight that is around 50% less than fills made using typical materials. The load reduction, along with the high internal friction angle of the lightweight aggregate, can decrease vertical and lateral pressures by almost 50%, potentially resulting in less settling. This literature study examines the use of lightweight materials, including LECA, Bonza, and Thermostone, in geotechnical engineering applications. The results demonstrate a significant emphasis on improving slope stability and minimizing stresses on susceptible soils. Nevertheless, several knowledge gaps exist regarding the efficacy of these materials under challenging conditions and when subjected to dynamic loads. A growing inclination towards using these lightweight aggregates is observed because of their advantageous environmental and mechanical properties. Further investigation is needed to examine the extended-term performance and interactions of these materials with different soil types in order to enhance their performance in diverse geotechnical situations.

Exploring the Cutting Process of Coaxial Phase Change Fibers under Optical Characterization Tests

Urban heat islands (UHI) are a growing issue due to urbanization, causing citizens to suffer from the inadequate thermal properties of building materials. Therefore, the need for climate-resistant infrastructure is crucial for quality of life. Phase change materials (PCMs) offer a solution by being incorporated into construction materials for thermoregulation. PCMs store and release heat as latent heat, adjusting temperatures through phase changes. Polymeric phase change fibers (PCFs) are an innovative technology for encapsulating PCMs and preventing leaks. This study produced PCFs via wet-spinning, using commercial cellulose acetate (CA, Mn 50,000) as the sheath and polyethylene glycol (PEG 2000) as the core. The PCFs were cut using a hot-cutting method at three different temperatures and washed with distilled water. Morphological analysis was conducted with a bright-field microscope, and chemical analysis was performed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) before and after controlled washing. Additionally, the washing baths were analyzed by UV-visible spectroscopy to detect PEG. The PCFs displayed a well-defined core-shell structure. Although some PEG 2000 leakage occurred in unsuccessful cuts, cuts at 50 °C showed sealed ends and less material in the baths, making it viable for civil engineering materials.

Mechanical properties of cementitious metallic hollow sphere composite under compression

This study presents a novel cementitious metallic hollow sphere composite by integrating metallic hollow spheres (MHS) into a cement matrix. Experimental results show that while MHS reduce the stiffness and strength of cement matrix, they enhance deformability and energy absorption. Adding 0.5% polypropylene fibers significantly improves mechanical properties and changes failure mode from brittle to ductile. This work offers insights into MHS materials in civil engineering.

Constitutive modeling and extended performance evaluation of concrete reinforced with non-hybrid waste tire steel fibers

This paper investigates the extended performance and constitutive modeling of waste tire steel fiber reinforced concrete (WFRC), making notable contributions to civil engineering materials. The study assesses constitutive modeling, reinforcement indices, and the long-term performance of concrete reinforced with varying percentages of waste tire steel fiber (WSF) ranging from 0.30 % to 1.75 %. A modified analytical model for predicting compressive stress-strain curves of WFRC is introduced and compared with previous analytical models for fiber-reinforced concrete. Additionally, a novel waste tire steel fiber reinforcing index, based on WSF properties, is proposed. Empirical relationships between strength properties and reinforcement indices are established. Experimental strength properties at the standard age, as well as water absorption, carbonation depth, and split-tensile strength of specimens aged beyond the standard age at 600 days and fiber-matrix interaction obtained by SEM analysis, are reported. Prediction models are proposed for estimating the mechanical properties of WFRC at the standard age, with results compared against existing codes. The proposed modified analytical model for the uniaxial compressive stress-strain curve demonstrates better coherence with experimental curves than existing models. Furthermore, empirical equations developed in terms of the waste tire steel fiber reinforcing index demonstrate satisfactory alignment between predicted and experimental strength properties. Significant improvements are observed in specimens aged 600 days, indicating the promising role of WSF in enhancing the long-term performance and serviceability of structures. Further studies are recommended to explore the performance of WFRC in aggressive environmental conditions.

A micromechanical study on sand − FRP interface subjected to cyclic loading

Fibre-reinforced polymer (FRP) is a promising composite to be used in construction in coastal and marine environments to resist seawater corrosion that deteriorates the properties of conventional civil engineering materials. A classical ground or seabed − structure interaction problem that is involved in the design of FRP structures, is however less understood when the soft nature of FRP is in subjection to the cyclic loadings from traffic, wind, wave and currents, causing penetration and abrasion at the soft FRP − soil interface. This study has downscaled the preceding problem into a micromechanical study at a benchmark sand grain − FRP interface. A large number of cyclic loading is applied, for the first time, at the sand − FRP composite interface, focusing on the development of the elastoplastic behaviour in the normal direction and the evolution of friction and energy dissipation in the tangential direction. The study combines the understanding from the tribology with the knowledge of civil engineering involved in the sand − FRP interaction, suggesting that a larger stick zone at the contact subjected to cyclic shearing is a key triggering of the simultaneous occurrence of the increased coefficient of friction and reduced damping ratio.

Molecular dynamics study of Gr(GO)/C-A-S-H composites at different temperatures: optimization of structural, dynamic and mechanical properties of civil engineering materials

In recent years, composites have been widely used in engineering fields, where nanomaterials such as graphene (Gr) and graphene oxide (GO) have potential advantages as interfacial modifiers in enhancing the properties of composites. However, the relationship between the interfacial structure and the mechanical properties of the nanocomposites is not clear, and the behavior of the composites may differ significantly at different temperatures. This study aims to investigate in depth the interfacial structure, dynamics, and mechanical properties of Gr, epoxy group-containing (-O) and hydroxyl group-containing (-OH) graphene oxide and calcium aluminosilicate hydrate (C-A-S-H) composites at different temperatures using molecular dynamics. The effect of nanomaterial composition on the interfacial chemical bonding network is revealed. The local chemical structures of bridging aluminum [Al(Q2b)] and interlayer aluminum (Alw) show different changes at different temperatures. Elevated temperature promotes the hydrolysis of interlayer water molecules to form hydroxyl groups, which affects the formation of chemical bonding networks.Al(Q2b) favors Gr and C-A-S-H linkages, whereas Alw favors GO and C-A-S-H bonding. Temperature changes lead to different chemical bonding connections and altered atomic motions. At the interface, Al atoms form a more stable chemical bonding network, which improves the interaction strength at the interface. Different composite models exhibited different mechanical properties at high temperatures and introducing epoxy and hydroxyl groups enhanced the plastic deformation of the composites. Structural analyses showed that temperature changes affected the molecular structure and interfacial bonding effects of the composites, which in turn affected the mechanical properties of the materials. At different temperatures, GO-O/C-A-S-H has higher tensile strength and Young's modulus, which can resist the degradation of performance caused by thermal expansion to a certain extent, and ensure the stability and safety of the structure, so it is more practical. These findings provide important insights to deepen the understanding of composite properties and have positive implications for future composite design and applications.

Effect of Grinding Conditions on Clinker Grinding Efficiency: Ball Size, Mill Rotation Speed, and Feed Rate

The production of cement, an essential material in civil engineering, requires a substantial energy input, with a significant portion of this energy consumed during the grinding stage. This study addresses the gap in the literature concerning the collective impact of key parameters, including ball size, feed rate, and mill speed, on grinding efficiency. Nine spherical balls, ranging from 15–65 mm, were utilized in six distinct distributions, alongside varying feed rates and mill speeds. ANOVA, Taguchi, and regression analyses were employed to explore their influence on grinding efficiency and cement properties. The findings revealed that ball size variation significantly affects grinding performance, with smaller diameter balls yielding higher efficiency due to increased abrasion and fine formation. Conversely, elevating mill speed generally diminishes grinding efficiency, particularly at speeds approaching 90% of the critical speed, impacting ball shoulder and foot angles. Moreover, increasing the feed rate affects the grinding performance differently based on ball distribution, with finer distributions experiencing adverse effects. Signal-to-noise ratios facilitated determining the optimal control factor levels to minimize energy consumption. Quadratic regression models exhibited strong predictive capabilities for energy consumption in grinding. Ultimately, the optimal grinding performance was achieved with Bond-type ball distribution No. 6, considering ball size, mill speed, and feed-rate interactions, albeit with considerations regarding grinding time and energy efficiency.

An Investigation of Seismic Behaviour of Prestressed Concrete Frame Structures using Pushover Analysis

Abstract: The prestressed concrete system is a prominent material in civil engineering, with applications ranging from buildings, bridges, foundations, piling, silos, stadiums, roadways, and other infrastructure. However, this work is primarily concerned with its applicability to building frame constructions subjected to seismic loading. The prestressed concrete system for frame constructions not only reduces the amount of structural components, but it is also a cost-effective technology that provides outstanding strength and stiffness, as well as quick and simple site erection. Hence, we will be able to use these prestressed concrete components to their full capacity, unlocking engineering and social benefits that were previously impossible. Prestressed concrete designs, as opposed to reinforced concrete designs, can give structures with substantially longer spans, no cracks, or fewer cracks with tiny crack widths. Nonetheless, research on the seismic behaviour of prestressed concrete frame structures is relatively restricted, with the majority of studies focusing on reinforced concrete structures. Finally, the provisional versions of modern building codes such as ACI 318, GB50010, and EC2 do not provide thorough processes for seismic design of prestressed concrete structures. In this work, the seismic design and behaviour of prestressed concrete building frames are explored using the most recent design code. Three model-building codes will be investigated and compared, including ACI 318- 14, Eurocode 2004-2, and Chinese GB500010-2010. The 10-story prestressed concrete frame system is subjected to gravity and seismic loading, and the strong-column weak beam mechanism is archived to conform with the newly implemented building design code. To examine the behaviour of prestressed concrete frame structures, nonlinear static pushover analysis is used to capture the reaction under earthquake loading. The stiffness and strength needed will be designed in compliance with the three major building codes indicated. In addition, the finite element model will be created using CSI Sap200 to capture its actions.

Comparison of Coren mix design with other international mix (ACI and DoE) design methods

Because of its quality, which allows for veracities, Today, concrete is the most frequently utilized civil engineering material. Concrete has a low tensile strength and a high compressive strength. Even though Nigeria is Africa's giant, it has been discovered that its local contractor does not have a well-used standard mix procedure. Local Nigerian contractors have relied on an international mix. COREN recently established a mix design. It is critical that we determine whether this design process will be suitable for usage by local contractors. To assess the effectiveness of the published local mix against defined international standards, a complete experimental analysis of the COREN mix design with ACI and DoE was used in this study. With a target compressive strength of 30N/mm2, three concrete mix designs with 0.48 and 0.50 water/cement ratios were used, and this mix was subjected to compressive tests, split tensile tests, and three-point bending. With respect to all the test conducted and analyzed, this attests to the level of significance of COREN i.e. For 28days mix with 0.48w/c, compressive strength with COREN gave 32N/mm2 against 31N/mm2 and 30N/mm2 for ACI and DoE mix, respectively. Splitting tensile strength of 2.7 N/mm2 was achieved with COREN mix against 2.8N/mm2 and 2.7N/mm2 from ACI and DoE, respectively. Likewise, results of flexural strength are 4.7N/mm2, 5.3N/mm2 and 5.1N/mm2 for COREN, ACI and DoE, respectively. For 28days mix with 0.50w/c, compressive strength with COREN gave 29N/mm2 against 30N/mm2 for ACI and DoE mix, respectively. Splitting tensile strength of 2.5N/mm2 was achieved with COREN mix against 2.4N/mm2 and 2.8N/mm2 from ACI and DoE, respectively. Likewise, results of flexural strength are 5.1N/mm2, 4.7N/mm2 and 5.6N/mm2 for COREN, ACI and DoE, respectively.

Effect of Graphene Quantum Dots (GQDs) on the mechanical, dynamic, and durability properties of concrete

Addressing ecological concerns stemming from concrete usage is paramount, prompting exploration into additives for mitigation. Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) have been recognized for their potential to improve the mechanical attributes of cement composites. Additionally, the electrochemical reduction of a saturated solution of carbon dioxide (CO2) and monoethanolamine (CO2-MEA) effectively removes CO2 from the atmosphere. This study delves into the influence of GQDs on the mechanical and durability aspects of concrete. It is noted that the control mix of concrete without GQDs was specifically designed for concrete railway sleepers. Varied proportions of GQDs, ranging from 0.3 % to 1.2 % at 0.3 % increments, were incorporated to assess their impact on fresh and hardened concrete properties. Mechanical properties such as compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, flexural strength, and dynamic properties were evaluated. Durability assessments encompassing water absorption and chloride ion penetration were conducted. Microstructural analysis via Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) imaging and Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) elucidated the concrete's internal composition. Notably, an optimal GQDs percentage of 0.3 % was observed, signifying its efficacy in enhancing the performance of concrete. When 0.3 % of GQDs was added to concrete, compressive strength, split tensile strength, and flexural strength were enhanced by 10.8 %, 23 %, and 11 % respectively. The incorporation of GQDs resulted in a notable improvement in the fundamental frequencies and dynamic modulus of elasticity. Concurrently, a decrease in the damping ratio was observed for specimens containing GQDs. Additionally, the porosity and chloride penetration depth were lower by 6 % and 30 % for specimens with 0.3 % GQDs. The improvement in workability, mechanical, and dynamic properties of concrete, along with reducing CO2 from the atmosphere, makes GQDs an ideal eco-friendly material. This study is the first to open new pathways for the development of construction materials that are not only structurally superior but also environmentally responsible, marking a significant step forward in the field of civil engineering materials, especially in railway applications.

Application and performance evaluation of recycled building materials in civil engineering

The concept of renewable materials has received extensive advocacy and promotion in the ongoing development of the construction industry. Furthermore, emerging renewable building materials, such as bio-based composite materials, are continually evolving and gradually being incorporated into civil engineering applications. This paper focuses on the application and performance assessment of recycled building materials in civil engineering. As a crucial component of environmental protection and sustainable development, recycled building materials possess vast potential for application. In this article, the characteristics of common materials such as recycled concrete, recycled steel, and recycled glass are introduced, and their mechanical performance, durability, and other vital attributes are evaluated. Finally, the feasibility and challenges of recycled building materials are analyzed, along with discussions on sustainable development strategies and policy support. The comprehensive research results demonstrate the significant role of recycled building materials in promoting sustainable development in civil engineering, warranting increased support and promotion at the policy and societal levels.

Cost-effective microbial induced ZnO synthesis for building material: Antibacterial, photocatalytic and mechanical characteristics

Utilization of effective and economical nanoparticles/nanocomposite materials in civil engineering is still remaining a significant challenge in current research arena. In this study, microbial-induced precipitation was formulated for integration of white cement mortar to enhance efficiency and evaluate its potential applications in antibacterial and photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue. Hexagonal wurtzite structure of synthesized ZnO exhibited high crystallinity with significant contribution of hydration product after 28days analysis. Morphology of produced material showed less homogeneity with high densification and morphology altered from needles-like structure to tube with the integration of adsorbent ratio from ZnO-0 to 2.5, presented all the required chemical components in EDXS analysis. The water absorption rate in sample slurry of ZnO-2.5 exhibited significant reduction of 52.75 % compared to baseline water absorption rate of 12.71 % in commercial ZnO and contact angle was noted higher as 89.54°, which indicates hydrophilic character of material. The highest compressive strength of sample ZnO-2.5 was noted 508.89 kgf/cm2 in 28days of wet curing method, indicated the effective gel formation of calcium silicate in samples. Maximum methylene blue dye degradation recorded 79.95 % in case of using ZnO-2.5, which showed another influential character with excellent efficiency. In addition, prepared sample has shown almost complete bactericidal efficiency under simulated sunlight. Compared to commercial white cement mortar, biological white cement mortar can save NT$149,531 per cubic meter at industrial scale. Therefore, results indicate that microbial-induced zinc precipitation incorporated using hydrothermal preparation of biological white cement mortar improves the surface properties for applications and reduces its cost of study.

Geogrid-type geotextile made from Typha domingensis fibers with high tensile strength for erosion control

The present invention relates to a geotextile of the geogrid type manufactured with fibers from the Typha domingensis plant, known as cumbungi, recognized for its remarkable tensile strength. This geotextile is developed to mitigate erosive processes and is produced from natural fibers arranged in a mat configuration. This product fit in with the technical fields of civil engineering and textile materials. The central innovation of this geotextile lies in the provision of a natural alternative featuring biodegradable fibers and high tensile strength. Its applications in environmental engineering include erosion prevention, slope stabilization, and reinforcement of road structures, with the fundamental goal of preserving the soil against degradation and erosion. This high-strength geotextile is composed of Typha domingensis fibers skillfully interwoven and connected to form a grid structure, with each unit covering approximately 0.25 m2s. Furthermore, a double layer of waterproofing material is incorporated to provide greater cohesion, environmental durability, and tensile strength. In practical applications, this geotextile demonstrates a remarkable ability to withstand mass movements even before local vegetation develops. This makes it a technological alternative that synergistically combines technological and ecological processes, incorporating the principles of soil bioengineering while offering a sustainable alternative to synthetic geotextiles. The use of this geotextile in the field is preferably combined with living components such as seeds, plant stakes, wood, or rocks for slope or embankment stabilization, with a primary focus on effective erosion control and the promotion of environmental sustainability.

Laboratory and Numerical Investigation of Pre-Tensioned Reinforced Concrete Railway Sleepers Combined with Plastic Fiber Reinforcement.

This research investigates the application of plastic fiber reinforcement in pre-tensioned reinforced concrete railway sleepers, conducting an in-depth examination in both experimental and computational aspects. Utilizing 3-point bending tests and the GOM ARAMIS system for Digital Image Correlation, this study meticulously evaluates the structural responses and crack development in conventional and plastic fiber-reinforced sleepers under varying bending moments. Complementing these tests, the investigation employs ABAQUS' advanced finite element modeling to enhance the analysis, ensuring precise calibration and validation of the numerical models. This dual approach comprehensively explains the mechanical behavior differences and stresses within the examined structures. The incorporation of plastic fibers not only demonstrates a significant improvement in mechanical strength and crack resistance but paves the way for advancements in railway sleeper technology. By shedding light on the enhanced durability and performance of reinforced concrete structures, this study makes a significant contribution to civil engineering materials science, highlighting the potential for innovative material applications in the construction industry.