Enhanced compressive strength and impact resistance in hybrid fiber reinforced ternary-blended alkali-activated concrete: An experimental, weibull analysis and finite element simulation

Abstract

This study explores hybrid fiber-reinforced alkali-activated concrete (AAHFRC) as a sustainable solution, enhancing compressive strength and impact resistance through the bridging capacity of hybrid fibers. Utilizing a specialized ternary mix with FA: GGBS: SF in a 35:50:15 ratio with the hybrid interaction of steel, polypropylene, and glass fibers demonstrates the significant improving the impact resistance performance. Experiments were conducted on the compressive strength and impact resistance of AAHFRC in accordance with ACI 544 guidelines. Experimental results demonstrated a 63 % increase in compressive strength, with the highest value of 106.38 MPa recorded for the ASG2.0 hybrid mix, along with a significant improvement in impact resistance. The hybrid fiber mixes outperformed mono-fiber mixes, achieving the highest fracture impact energy (Ef) of 56 kN-m. The synergy factor further validated the effectiveness of hybrid systems, with ASG2.0 attaining a synergy index of 1.37, surpassing mono-fiber mixes. Complementing the experimental findings, statistical Weibull analysis and finite element analysis (FEA) using ANSYS were conducted. The Weibull analysis revealed strong reliability, with an R-squared value of 0.989, indicating high consistency in impact resistance performance. Explicit dynamic analysis using FEM verified improved stress distribution, reduced deformation, and a strong correlation between experimental and simulated results, with a difference of not more than 5 %. These outcomes demonstrate the potential of AAHFRC as a sustainable, durable, and high-performance material for advanced construction applications. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.