A comparative Investigation of the Mechanical and Physical Properties of Conventional Hydraulic Concrete and Polyethylene Fiber-Reinforced Concrete

The primary objective of this study is to enhance the mechanical performance and durability of concrete by incorporating polyethylene (P.E) fibers as non-degradable hybrid reinforcement materials. The research addresses the challenge of improving strength and crack resistance while maintaining acceptable workability, a critical issue in modern construction materials. This topic is significant within civil engineering as the demand for durable and sustainable infrastructure continues to increase. An experimental research design was adopted to compare conventional hydraulic concrete with polyethylene fiber-reinforced concrete (PE-FRC). Polyethylene fibers measuring 32 mm in length and 0.3 mm in diameter were introduced at volume fractions of 1 %, 1.5 %, 2 %, 2.5 %, and 3 %. Cylindrical specimens (16×32 cm) and prismatic (4×4×16 cm) specimens were prepared. Workability was assessed using the slump test while compressive and flexural strengths were determined through standardized mechanical testing procedures. Physical properties, including density and unit weight, were also evaluated. Results indicate a reduction in slump from 5.8cm to 4.1cm as the fiber content increased confirming decreased workability. However, mechanical performance improved in compressive and flexural tensile tests, demonstrating enhanced crack-bridging capacity. A gradual reduction in density was also observed. The novelty of this study lies in its systematic evaluation of moderate PE fiber dosage and their dual mechanical-physical effects. Limitations include the laboratory-scale and absence of long-term durability testing. Practically, PE-FRC can improve structural resilience buildings and infrastructures contributing to sustainable construction and enhance infrastructure performance.