Comparative study for efficacy of chemically treated jute fiber and bamboo fiber on the properties of reinforced concrete beams

Synthetic fibers are normally used as reinforcing material to strengthen the concrete. Natural fibers have been considered as the most sustainable alternative for synthetic fibers in both cost and sustainability point of view. In this study, mechanical characteristics of pre-treated bamboo and jute fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC) composites have been evaluated. The performance of treated natural fibers in the enhancement of strength of concrete has been examined. Fibers were added in the percentage proportions of 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, and 2.5 by the weight of cement in the concrete matrix. The compressive and flexural strength of fiber-reinforced concrete has been experimentally verified. The test results show that maximum compressive strength was obtained as 26.4 MPa and 26.1 MPa for concrete with 1.5% bamboo and 2% jute fibers, respectively, at 28 days of curing. Similarly, maximum flexural strength was obtained as 6.36 MPa and 6.1 MPa for concrete with 1.5% bamboo and 2% jute fibers, respectively, at 28 days of curing. Based on the maximum compressive strength and flexural strength, optimum dosage of treated bamboo and jute fiber has been identified as 1.5% and 2%, respectively. SEM analysis reveals that there is a good bonding between fibers and concrete matrix, and breaking of fibers is due to pulling load and debonding.