Structural Performance of Coir Fiber Crash Barriers: An Engineering Analysis of Safety and Sustainability

The coir industry, a traditional sector with deep socio-economic roots in India, is undergoing a critical transformation towards sustainable and value-added applications. As India aims for net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, the transportation sector's environmental impact necessitates sustainable infrastructure solutions. This study explores natural coir fiber, a biodegradable byproduct of coconut husks, as an eco-friendly alternative to conventional steel and concrete crash barriers. Focusing on the National Highway Authority of India’s NH66 project, the research evaluates coir’s mechanical properties, including tensile strength and energy absorption, alongside its durability and safety performance through prototype testing and ANSYS crash simulations. Results demonstrate that coir-based barriers offer comparable safety standards to traditional materials while significantly reducing carbon emissions (0.83 kg CO2e/kg versus 1.4–1.85 t CO2/t for steel and 0.93 lb CO2/lb for concrete). Economically, coir barriers are cost-effective at ₹410/m compared to ₹1586.86–8604.72/m for conventional options, promoting rural livelihoods through coconut industry byproducts. This approach aligns with circular economy principles offering a scalable, low-carbon solution for road safety infrastructure. The findings advocate for further research into coir’s long-term durability and standardized implementation to support sustainable development and climate goals.