Use of agriculture waste as short discrete fibers and glass-fiber-reinforced-polymer rebars in concrete walls for enhancing impact resistance

Abstract Residual wastes of large-scale productions are constantly gaining attention in developing countries for their possible use in manufacturing of sustainable materials. Natural fibers (jute fibres) that are abundantly available in agriculturally progressive countries when used in concrete can engage construction industry for adopting environmentally friendly material composites. Jute fibers have tendency to improve performance of concrete in terms of energy absorption. Structures that are vulnerable to blast happenings are supposed to absorb the high impact energy in case of such unprecedented event. The overall goal of the research program is to improve the dynamic performance of concrete by addition of natural fibers. The specific aim of this study is to improve impact resistance of concrete walls by addition of jute fibers. Prototype walls are prepared using steel rebars and GFRP rebars with normal concrete and jute fiber reinforced concrete. 50 mm long jute fibers are used, 5% by mass of cement. Mix design ratio of 1: 2: 3: 0.6 (Cement: Sand: Aggregates: w/c) is taken. Impact testing is performed using modified pendulum impact apparatus. Impact strength and dynamic response is investigated. Dynamic properties are determined at different damage stages. Post impact fiber concrete matrix is analyzed. Empirical and analytical equations are developed based on obtained results. The obtained results show domination of GFRP rebars reinforced concrete walls having jute fibers over other combinations. Thus, obtained dominant combination of rebars and fiber reinforced concrete can be practically implemented to avoid possible spreading of concrete fragments against blast impact, saving human lives.