EVALUATION OF SISAL FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE FOR SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION

The study evaluated sisal fibre-reinforced concrete (SiFRC) for sustainable construction by examining the effects of fibre content, fibre length and aspect ratio on fresh workability and hardened mechanical performance. Portland limestone cement, natural river sand, crushed granite, potable water and sisal fibres were used to produce the concrete specimens at a constant water–cement ratio of 0.50. Sisal fibres were incorporated at dosages of 0.1% to 0.5% by weight of cement, with fibre lengths of 20 mm, 30 mm and 40 mm corresponding to aspect ratios of 100, 150 and 200, respectively. Workability was assessed using the slump test, while compressive strength, flexural strength and split tensile strength were evaluated at 7, 14 and 28 days. The results showed that sisal fibre inclusion reduced slump, with longer fibres and higher aspect ratios producing lower workability due to increased fibre interlocking and internal friction. Mechanical strength generally increased with curing age, indicating progressive hydration and improved fibre–matrix interaction. The findings confirmed that sisal fibre can be used as a renewable reinforcement material in concrete, provided that fibre dosage and aspect ratio are properly controlled to balance workability and strength performance.