Flexural performance of sustainable fibrous light-weight self-compacted concrete slabs
Fatma M. Eid, Taher A. Tawfik, Mohamed Ghalla, Abdulaziz Alaskar, Md. Habibur Rahman Sobuz, Islam Ali Mahmoud
Abstract
Abstract The integration of recycled materials in concrete technology has gained significant attention, promoting sustainability and resource conservation. This research investigates the properties of lightweight self-compacting concrete (LWSCC) using light expanded clay aggregate (LECA). Lightweight concrete offers benefits such as reduced weight, enhanced fire resistance, lower thermal conductivity, superior moisture resistance, and increased durability compared to conventional concrete. This study provides valuable insights for architects and civil engineers on optimal reinforcement selection for LWSCC. Nine concrete slab samples, including four with openings, were tested. Three mixture types were tested based on fiber type and reinforcement variation. A complete substitution (100%) of coarse aggregate with LECA was evaluated. Additionally, 0.25% cement weight ratio of polypropylene and glass fibers was used to assess their impact on LWSCC’s flexural performance. It was found that lightweight fiber-reinforced concrete exhibits superior tensile strength-to-weight ratio and ductility due to fibers inclusion. The flexural strength, and crack resistance of the concrete were analyzed. Results indicated that glass fibers enhance performance in both solid and perforated slabs compared to polypropylene fibers. Results showed that slabs reinforced with welded wire mesh and glass fibers exhibited the highest flexural performance, with the ultimate load increasing by up to 45% compared to slabs without fibers. For slabs with openings, the use of glass fibers enhanced load capacity by 45.7%, while polypropylene fibers led to a 31.4% improvement. The study concluded that incorporating welded wire mesh with polypropylene or glass fibers improves collapse behavior and ductility.