Study of Kevlar Aramid Fiber in Improving Concrete Performance and Mitigating Pathologies

This study investigated the potential of Kevlar aramid fiber reinforcement to enhance the mechanical properties and mitigate pathologies in concrete structures. The objectives were to analyze improvements in flexural and compressive strengths and to evaluate the effectiveness of Kevlar in reducing pathological manifestations under the specific conditions and methodologies of this experiment. Experimental testing was conducted on prismatic and cylindrical concrete specimens, prepared following standard mix ratios and testing protocols. Kevlar fiber was applied to the specimens using an epoxy resin, ensuring adhesion and uniform reinforcement. The results, obtained under these controlled conditions, showed a 6.90% increase in flexural tensile strength, from 0.29 MPa to 0.31 MPa, and a 14% enhancement in compressive strength, from 14 MPa to 16 MPa. Pathological manifestations, such as crack propagation, were significantly mitigated in the reinforced specimens, demonstrating improved structural preservation and reduced degradation under tensile and compressive stresses. These findings, specific to the experimental parameters and standards employed, confirm the dual benefits of Kevlar reinforcement. The study highlights its effectiveness in improving durability, reducing maintenance demands, and extending the service life of concrete structures, reinforcing its potential as a viable solution for advanced civil construction applications.