Effect of Coconut Fiber on Geopolymer Mortar with Acoustic Emission Analysis

High carbon emission from the cement production industry encourages the development of environmentally friendly materials as a sustainable alternative; one of them is geopolymer mortar that utilises industrial waste as a binder. As with traditional binders, geopolymer binders also have shortcomings in flexural strength. It can be improved by adding fibre to the mortar mix. This study utilises coconut fibre (coir), considered waste in some countries, making it a sustainable solution for managing agricultural residues. Geopolymer mortar specimens with coconut fibre reinforcement were prepared in the laboratory, and their mechanical properties were tested. In-depth investigations were also conducted using acoustic emission technology. The results of the study, supported by acoustic emission analysis, showed an improvement in the mechanical properties of geopolymer mortar specimens when reinforced with coconut fibre. Geopolymer mortar reinforced with coconut fibre has the potential for use in sustainable and resilient construction applications.