Evaluation of Strength Soils Reinforced with Natural and Synthetic Fibers: an Experimental Study

This study investigates the mechanical behavior of soil reinforced with natural curauá fibers and synthetic polypropylene fibers, aiming to enhance strength and ductility. The originality lies in comparing these two types of fibers, focusing on their effects at varying contents (0.25% and 0.50%) and lengths (15 mm for curauá and 12 mm for polypropylene). Experimental methods included the preparation of 30 specimens molded under controlled conditions to analyze Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) and splitting tensile strength. Results revealed that polypropylene fibers improved UCS by up to 27% and tensile strength by 29%, outperforming curauá fibers. However, curauá fibers demonstrated enhanced large-deformation capacity, mitigating brittle failure. Both fibers significantly increased ductility, with specimens achieving notable post-peak deformation without abrupt strength loss. The study highlights the potential of curauá fibers as a sustainable alternative to synthetic materials, emphasizing their application in geotechnical engineering where high deformability is critical. Future research should focus on long-term performance under environmental and mechanical stresses.