Experimental study of concrete compressive strength incorporating hybrid application of copolymer and homopolymer fiber

Concrete structures are designed to withstand specified loads but remain vulnerable to shear and flexural failures, which can be aggravated by material degradation over time. This study investigates the compressive strength and failure mechanisms of Grade 30 and Grade 40 concrete incorporating copolymer and homopolymer fibers at dosages of 2, 3, and 4kg/m³ Specimens were cured for 7 and 28 days and tested using a Universal Testing Machine (UTM). Results indicate that fiber-reinforced samples demonstrate higher compressive strength in the early curing stages compared to control samples. However, control samples ultimately outperform fiber-reinforced samples in long-term strength. The failure patterns vary significantly; fiber-reinforced concrete exhibits more controlled crack propagation and ductility, while normal concrete displays brittle failure characterized by spalling and crushing. The study highlighted the effectiveness of fiber reinforcement in improving early strength and structural behaviour, although the superior long-term performance of optimally designed control concrete was noted. These findings underscore the potential of fiber-reinforced concrete to enhance tensile properties and durability, promoting sustainable construction practices. The insights gained provide a foundation for further research into the use of fiber reinforcement in concrete, contributing to the development of innovative and resilient infrastructure solutions.