Influence of banana fiber content on the mechanical properties of cementitious composites

This study evaluates the feasibility of using banana fiber (Musa acuminata Cavendish Subgroup) as a reinforcing material in Portland cement concretes. Considering the growing production of banana crop residues in Brazil, especially in Bahia, the potential reuse of the pseudostem as an alternative source of vegetable fibers was investigated. The physical and mechanical properties of the fibers were characterized, and the effects of their incorporation on the fresh and hardened properties of cementitious composites were assessed, focusing on axial compressive strength and flexural tensile strength. Banana fibers were incorporated at contents of 0.50% and 0.75% by cement mass. Slump, axial compressive strength, and flexural tensile strength tests were performed on the concrete. It was observed that the mechanical properties evaluated were most favored with the addition of 0.50% fibers, without loss of slump, maximizing flexural tensile strength, and with little reduction in compressive strength. In contrast, the incorporation of 0.75% fibers reduced slump, produced little gain in flexural tensile strength, and caused a significant loss in axial compressive strength.