Enhancement of mechanical and durability properties of M40 concrete using agro-industrial by-products and fibre reinforcement

This study examines the development and performance of sustainable fibre reinforced concrete composites incorporating agro-industrial by products. Palm Oil Fuel Ash (POFA) from the palm oil industry was used as a partial cement replacement at proportions from 5% to 30% by weight. Furthermore, the selected mixes are enriched with polypropylene fibres (0.2%) and E-glass fibres (0.5) to enhance mechanical performance and reduce cracking. In addition, Palm Oil Shells (POS) were also used as lightweight coarse aggregates to reduce the overall density and increase the eco-efficiency in the mix. Compressive strength, split tensile strength, and flexural strength were also evaluated, and durability under sulphuric acid, sodium chloride, and magnesium sulphate exposure was tested as part of an experimental programme. The results indicate significant improvement in mechanical performance and chemical resistance of the composites with the inclusion of POFA, fibres, and POS. A mix of optimum 20% POFA, 0.2% polypropylene fibre, 0.5 % E-glass fibre, and 15% POS has been found to give superior structural performance, better durability, and still contributes a lot towards sustainability goals. It is found that these hybrid fibre composites are potential candidates for use in civil or polymer engineering structural and infrastructure applications.