EFFECTS OF COCONUT FIBER ON MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF PERVIOUS CONCRETE INCORPORATING RECYCLED CONCRETE AGGREGATES

Abstract

Pervious concrete is acknowledged as an environmentally friendly material due to its capacity to enable water passage and efficiently handle stormwater runoff. This current study delves into the influence of incorporating coconut fiber into pervious concrete pavement, specifically exploring the alterations in mechanical properties through the reinforcement with coconut fiber. The experimentation encompassed the introduction of coconut fiber (0-1 % of the cement�s weight) into the mix, along with varying proportions of recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) at 25, 50, 75, and 100 %. The assessment focused on evaluating the resulting pervious concrete�s compressive strength, flexural strength, and permeability. The study�s outcomes underscore several noteworthy findings. Firstly, the incorporation of coconut fiber was observed to enhance the mechanical properties, particularly the compressive strength and flexural strength of pervious concrete, showcasing improvements with a 1 % fiber content compared to 0 %. This suggests that an optimal fiber content can augment load-bearing capacity and crack resistance. Furthermore, the introduction of coconut fiber did not compromise the permeability of pervious concrete, maintaining it within acceptable limits for effective stormwater management. Additionally, a comprehensive examination of the impact of aggregate size revealed a more pronounced effect on compressive strength in mixes containing RCA. In conclusion, these findings enhance our comprehension of the mechanical properties of pervious concrete and present a sustainable avenue for enhancing its performance. The research opens avenues for the development of environmentally friendly and resilient pavement systems, effectively managing stormwater runoff in urban areas while preserving structural integrity. � 2024, Associated Cement Companies Ltd.. All rights reserved.