Experimental Analysis of Mechanical Properties of Fiber Reinforced Cenosphere Lightweight Concrete with Higher Temperature Effect

Abstract

The aim of this research is to explore the impact of polypropylene fibers and glass fibers on the mechanical characteristics of lightweight concrete when subjected to elevated temperatures. Different fiber ratios ranging from 0.25% & 0.50% by volume of concrete were tested to evaluate their impact on various concrete mixtures. Cenosphere is lightweight material as used with cement as bonding material. Pumice aggregate, which is known for its lightweight properties, was utilized as the coarse aggregate. The study aimed to explore various characteristics of lightweight concrete such as slump value, unit weight, and compressive, tensile, and flexural strength. The concrete samples were subjected to different temperatures ranging from 200°C to 400°C for two hours. The findings revealed that the addition of glass fibers improved the tensile strength of the concrete and enhanced the compressive and flexural strength of the lightweight concrete. However, the incorporation of polypropylene fibers resulted in more cracks and pore formation in the concrete. Additionally, the compressive and flexural strength of the concrete decreased with an increase in temperature up to 400°C.