Fibras de pitillo de plástico como material innovador en FRC bajo carga de flexión: análisis estadístico y experimental

Plastic straws (PS) are often discarded after a brief period of use, contributing significantly to global pollution. This article explores the mechanical properties of fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC) incorporating PS as an innovative reinforcing material. Our study evaluated the tensile strength and overall mechanical performance of concrete in both its fresh and hardened states after the inclusion of PS. To this effect, three tensile tests were performed, as well as 18 workability tests according to ASTM C-143 and 18 flexural tests following ASTM C78. Statistical methods were employed to analyze how the quantity and size of PS impact the mechanical properties of concrete. Although PS exhibited low stiffness and tensile strength, they demonstrated a high deformation capacity compared to other polymers. Additionally, the statistical analysis indicated that the dosage of PS added significantly influences the performance of FRC under flexural loading. Overall, the mechanical performance observed was comparable to that of other FRCs utilizing industrial polymers. This suggests that PS can effectively serve as a reinforcing element in concrete, given their good residual strength, which is a crucial characteristic in applications involving FRC.