Optimizing Mechanical Properties of Polypropylene Fibre-Reinforced Coconut Shell Concrete

Year : 2025 | Volume : 15 | Issue : 02 | Page : 6 12
    By

    Anjan Agrawal,

  • Harsh Rathore,

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of polypropylene (PP) fibre reinforcement on the mechanical properties of coconut shell (CS) concrete. The compressive strength of CS concrete is primarily governed by the strength of CS aggregates, with early-age failure attributed to poor bonding and later-stage failure influenced by aggregate strength. The incorporation of PP fibres significantly enhanced compressive, tensile, and flexural strength. At 28 days, compressive strength increased by 1.2–3.45% in CSF mixes and 1–4.1% in CSP mixes for 0.25–0.5% fibre content, while excessive fibre additions (0.75–1.0%) led to strength reductions. Splitting tensile strength improved by 11–26% across all fibre-reinforced mixes, and flexural strength showed enhancements of 6–29% in CSF and 4–22% in CSP mixes. The improvements are attributed to the fibre bridging mechanism, which restricts crack propagation and enhances ductility. However, beyond an optimal fibre content, workability issues and strength reductions were observed. This study confirms that PP fibre reinforcement can enhance the structural performance of CS concrete, making it a viable option for sustainable and lightweight construction.

Keywords: Polypropylene fibres, coconut shell concrete, mechanical properties, compressive strength, flexural strength, splitting tensile strength, fibre reinforcement, sustainable construction

[This article belongs to Recent Trends in Civil Engineering & Technology ]

How to cite this article:
Anjan Agrawal, Harsh Rathore. Optimizing Mechanical Properties of Polypropylene Fibre-Reinforced Coconut Shell Concrete. Recent Trends in Civil Engineering & Technology. 2025; 15(02):6-12.
How to cite this URL:
Anjan Agrawal, Harsh Rathore. Optimizing Mechanical Properties of Polypropylene Fibre-Reinforced Coconut Shell Concrete. Recent Trends in Civil Engineering & Technology. 2025; 15(02):6-12. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/rtcet/article=2025/view=232901


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Regular Issue Subscription Original Research
Volume 15
Issue 02
Received 21/03/2025
Accepted 21/04/2025
Published 25/04/2025
Publication Time 35 Days
61

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