CHAPTER-I

INTRODUCTION

1.1 General

Coconut fibre is extracted from the outer shell of a coconut. The common name,
scientific name and plant family of coconut fibre is Coir, Cocos nucifera and Arecaceae (Palm)
respectively. There are two types of coconut fibres, brown fibre extracted from matured
coconuts and white fibres extracted from immature coconuts. Coconut fibres are stiff and tough
and have low thermal conductivity. Coconut fibres are commercial available in three forms,
namely bristle (long fibres), mattress (relatively short) and decorticated (mixed fibres).
According to official website of International Year for Natural Fibres approximately, 500 000
tones of coconut fibres are produced annually worldwide, mainly in India and Sri Lanka. India
and Sri Lanka are also the main exporters, followed by Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines and
Indonesia. Around half of the coconut fibres produced is exported in the form of raw fibre.

Fig 1.1.: Matured coconut fibers

1.2 Fiber reinforced concrete

Fiber reinforced concrete (FRC) may be defined as a composite materials made with
Portland cement, aggregate, and incorporating discrete discontinuous fibers. Now, why would
we wish to add such fibers to concrete.
Plain, unreinforced concrete is a brittle material, with a low tensile strength and a low
strain capacity. The role of randomly distributes discontinuous fibers is to bridge across the
cracks that develop provides some post cracking ―ductility‖. If the fibers are sufficiently strong,
sufficiently bonded to material, and permit the FRC to carry significant stresses over a relatively
large strain capacity in the post cracking stage. There are, of course, other (and probably
cheaper) ways of increasing the strength of concrete. The real contribution of the fibers is to
increase the toughness of the concrete (defined as some function of the area under the load vs.
deflection curve), under any type of loading.

1
 When the fiber reinforcement is in the form of short discrete fibers, they act effectively
as rigid inclusions in the concrete matrix. Physically, they have thus the same order of
magnitude as aggregate inclusions; steel fiber reinforcement cannot therefore be regarded as a
direct replacement of longitudinal reinforcement in reinforced and prestressed structural
members. However, because of the inherent material properties of fiber concrete, the presence
of fibers in the body of the concrete or the provision of a tensile skin of fiber concrete can be
expected to improve the resistance of conventionally reinforced structural members to cracking,
deflection and other serviceability conditions. The fiber reinforcement may be used in the form
of three dimensionally randomly distributed fibers throughout the structural member when the
added advantages of the fiber to shear resistance and crack control can be further utilized .

1.3 Coconut fiber in construction

Plain concrete is a brittle material with low tensile strength. There has been a steady
increase in the use of short and randomly distributed natural fibres to reinforce the matrix
(paste, mortar and concrete). Fibres alter the behavior of concrete when a crack occurs by
bridging across the cracks And thus can provide some post cracking toughness. Fibres crossing
the crack guarantee a certain level of stress transfer between both faces of crack, providing a
residual strength to the composite, whose magnitude depends on thefibre, matrix and fibre
matrix interface.

Fig 1.2: Coconut fiber bridging crack

1.4 Strength of Concrete

Strength of concrete is its resistance to rupture under the action of various types of
forces. It may be measure in number of ways such as, strength in compression, strength in
tension, strength in shear or strength in flexure. The compressive strength of concrete is one of
the most important and useful properties of concrete. It is used as qualitative measure for other
properties of hardened concrete. Therefore, the concrete making properties of various
ingredients of mix are usually measured in terms of the compressive strength.

2
 Strength of concrete depends on various parameters such as w/c ratio, quality and
content of cement, chemical composition of cement, ratio of cement to aggregates, age and
curing conditions, grading of aggregates with its surface texture, shape, size, strength and
stiffness. Similarly strength of concrete is very much influenced by the chemical composition
of cement along with its particle size. Chemical composition has an important relationship to
fuel consumption, kiln operation, clinker formation and cement performance. Fineness of
cements has increased mainly to increase concrete early strength.

1.5 Objectives of the project

The following are the main objectives of the study are

 To study the properties of concrete made with coconut fiber in concrete mix  To
study the workability of coconut fiber reinforced concrete.
 To compare the fresh and hardened properties of concrete made with coconut fiber.

1.6 Need of the study

Coconut fibre with a tensile strength of 21.5 MPa is the toughest among all natural
fibres. They are capable of taking strains 4–6 times higher than other fibres. Although it is a
cheap and efficient a major hindrance towards its wide scale use is the high rate of water
absorption, which can be reduced by coating it with oil. The advantages of coconut fibre are
low cost, reasonable specific strength, low density, ease of availability, enhanced energy
recovery, biodegradability, and ability to be recycled in nature in a carbon neutral manner,
resistance to fungi moth and rot, excellent insulation to sound, flame, moisture and dampness,
toughness, durability, resilience.

1.7 Summary

Concrete is the most widely used construction material in all over the world. Concrete
is weak in tension and flexure so it is reinforced with steel reinforcing bars. Various types of
fibres were used in concrete to it make more strong, durable and economical. Natural fibre such
as coconut having physical and mechanical characteristics that can be used in the development
of reinforced concrete material. These coconut fibres are easily available in large quantity and
are also cheap. The primary goal of this project is to study the properties of concrete by
reinforcing with coconut fibres and the following objectives have been founded: To determine
the Compressive Strength and Split Tensile Strength of concrete after addition of coconut
fibres.

To know the performance of coconut fibres in reinforced concrete to reduce cracking.

The advantage of using such fibres provides generally a low cost construction and the
elimination of the need for waste disposal in landfills. Utilization of these fibres in concrete
leads to an effective solid waste management Technique.

3
 CHAPTER-II
LITERATURE REVIEWS
YASHWANTH M K ,SUSHMITHA G S , ET AL.,(2021)

In this experimental study different dimension of coir fibre is randomly distributed into
concrete of M25 grade with water-cement ratio of 0.43. The coir fibre with a length of 10mm,
15mm and 20mm of different percentage as 0.1%, 0.15%, 0.20%, 0.25%, and 0.30% are used
respectively. Due to the presence of coir fibre there is a decrease in the workability of concrete.
The test on compressive strength for 28 days is carried out for all the selected proportions of
coir fibre. And the maximum compressive strength was obtained for a mix having a fibre length
of 15 mm and 0.2% of coir fibre content.

Based on the experimental study it is noticed that the compressive strength found to be
decreases with increasing length and percentage of coir fibre. So, in the field of civil
engineering, more importance and encouragement should be given for the use of natural fibres
which are locally available materials.

ANJALI DHAMALA ET AL.,(2023)

In the present study the behavior of specimen with respect to compressive strength and
the cracking behavior of concrete and CFRC has been investigated. According to I.S.
specification different test is conducted to enhance the workability and strength properties by
addition of CF. different test such as slump test and flow table test on fresh concrete is carried
out and compressive strength and split tensile strength is carried out on hard concrete.
The properties can increase or decrease depending upon fiber length and its content. As a
result of this CFRC strengths can be greater than that of plain concrete.

SOUMEN SANTRA, JAYDEEP CHOWDHURY ET AL.,(2016)

In this study, coconut fibres were used as they are freely available in large quantities.
The study comprises of comparative state-ment of properties of coconut fibre reinforced
concrete with conventional concrete based on experiments performed in the laboratory. The use
of coconut fibres will also lead to better management of these waste fibres.
Coconut fibers are reported as efficient and eco-friendly material. So, it can be
concluded that coconut fi-bers have the potential to be used in composites for different
purposes.

SURAJ SINGH BISHT1, ANKIT SINGHET AL., (2022)

In this paper they are biodegradable, non-abrasive and there is no concern with health
and safety during handling. Natural fibre reinforced materials are environmentally friendly
materials producing less green-house gas emissions and pollutants.The use of natural fibres as
reinforcement is a way to recycle these fibres and to produce a high-performance material.

4
 Due to its relatively higher strength and ductility, it can be good replacements for
asbestos fibres in roofing sheets, which being natural in origin pose zero threat to the
environment. Coconut fibre being low in density reduces the overall weight of the fibre
reinforced concrete thus it can be used as a structural light weight concrete.

P.CHAITANYA D. SAI PRIYANKA ET AL.,(2022)

Coconut fibers are easily available in large quantity and are also cheap. In this study
experimental investigations are carried out to know the workability, compressive strength and
split tensile strength of coconut fiber reinforced concrete.

The concrete with 100% cement exhibits higher slump compared to one with coconut
fiber replacement. It was observed that higher the amount of percentage coconut fiber replaced,
the lower the slump.

ANKIT SHARMA,JASPREET SINGH ET AL., (2017)

In this study will be to find out the compressive and tensile strength of concrete by
adding coir fibre in concrete and replacing fine aggregates in concrete by steel slag. Coconut
fibre is the waste material which is obtains from the outer most part of the coconut.

When coir fibre is added alone maximum compressive strength is obtained 29.7 N/mm2
which was corresponds to 2% addition of coir fibre. Workability of concrete was decreasing
when the materials used as alone as well as in combination also.

5
 CHAPTER-III

MATERIALS AND MIX DESIGN

3.1 GENERAL

The present chapter deals with the presentation of results obtained from various tests
conducted on material used for developing pavement quality concrete. In order to achieve the
objectives of present study, an experimental program was planned to investigate the effect of
coconut fiber on compressive strength and split tensile strength of concrete

3.2 MATERIALS

The properties of materials used for making concrete mix are determined in laboratory
as per relevant codes of practice. Different materials used in present study were Cement, Coarse
aggregates, Fine aggregates, coconut fibers and water. The aim of a study of various properties
of material is used to check the appearance with coal requirements and to enable an engineer
to design a concrete mix for a particular strength. The description of various materials which
were used in this study is given below:

3.2.1 PORTLAND CEMENT

Portland cement is the most common type of cement in general use around the world as
a basic ingredient of concrete, mortar, stucco, and non-specialty grout. It was developed from
other types of hydraulic lime in England in the mid 19th century, and usually originates from
limestone. It is a fine powder, produced by heating limestone and clay minerals in a kiln to
form clinker, grinding the clinker, and adding 2 to 3 percent of gypsum. Several types of
Portland cement are available. The most common, called ordinary Portland cement (OPC), is
grey in colour, but white Portland cement is also available. Its name is derived from its
similarity to Portland stone which was quarried on the Isle of Portland in Dorset, England. It
was named by Joseph Aspin who obtained a patent for it in 1824. However, his son William
Aspin is regarded as the inventor of "modern" Portland cement due to his developments in the
1840s.
Portland cement is caustic, so it can cause chemical burns. The powder can cause
irritation or, with severe exposure, lung cancer, and can contain some hazardous components,
such as crystalline silica and hexavalent chromium.
Environmental concerns are the high energy consumption required to mine,
manufacture, and transport the cement, and the related air pollution, including the release of
greenhouse gases (e.g., carbon dioxide), dioxin, NOx, SO2, and particulates.
The low cost and widespread availability of the limestone, shale’s, and other naturally-
occurring materials used in Portland cement make it one of the lowest-cost materials widely

6
used over the last century. Concrete produced from Portland cement is one of the world's most
versatile construction materials.
Ordinary Portland cement (OPC) of 53 Grade from a single lot was used throughout
the course of the investigation. It was fresh and without any lumps. The physical properties of
the cement are determined from various tests conforming to Indian Standard IS: 8112:l1989 are
listed in table below Cement is carefully stored to prevent deterioration in its properties due to
contact with moisture.

Fig 3.1: OPC 53 Grade Cement

SI.NO characteristics Values obtained Values specified by IS 8112:1989

experimentally
1. Specific gravity 3.10 -

2. Standard consistency 2.7 -

percent
3. Initial setting time, 149 30(minutes)
minutes
4. Final setting time, 257 600(minutes)
minutes
5. Compressive strength
3days 27.8N/mm2 23N/mm2(minutes)
7days 36.5N/mm2 33N/mm2(minutes)
28days 4806N/mm2 43N/mm2(minutes)

Table no 3.1: Properties of OPC 53 Grade cement

3.2.2 AGGREGATES

Aggregates constitute the bulk of a concrete mixture and give dimensional stability to
concrete The most important function of the fine aggregate is to assist in producing
workability and uniformity in mixture. The fine aggregate assist the cement paste to hold the
coarse aggregate particles in suspension. This action promotes plasticity in the mixture and
prevents the possible segregation of paste and coarse aggregate, particularly when it is
necessary to transport the concrete some distance from the mixing plant to placement. The
aggregates provide about 75% of the body of the concrete and hence its influence is extremely
important.
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 They should therefore meet certain requirements if the concrete is to be workable,
strong, durable and economical. The aggregates must be proper shape, clean, hard, strong and
well graded.
3.2.2 A. COARSE AGGREGATES

Those particles that are predominantly retained on the 4.75 mm (No. 4) sieve and will
pass through 3-inch screen are called coarse aggregate. The coarser the aggregate, the more
economical the mix. Larger pieces offer less surface area of the particles than an equivalent
volume of small pieces. Use of the largest permissible maximum size of coarse aggregate
permits a reduction in cement and water requirements. Using aggregates larger than the
maximum size of coarse aggregates permitted can result in interlock and form arches or
obstructions within a concrete form. That allows the area below to become a void, or at best, to
become filled with finer particles of sand and cement only and results in a weakened area.

Fig no 3.2: Coarse aggregates

The coarse aggregates used were a mixture of two locally available crushed stone of
20mm and 10mm size in 70:30 proportion. The aggregates were washed to remove drit, dust
and then dried to surface dry condition.
Specific gravity and other properties of coarse aggregates are given in below tables.

characteristics value

colour grey

shape angular

Maximum size 20mm/10mm

Specific gravity 2.73/2.72

Water absorption 0.20%/0.35%

Table no 3.2: Properties of Coarse aggregates:

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 Weight of sample taken=3000gm

SI.NO IS-Sieve Weight Percentage Percentage Cumulative

(mm) Retained retained passing percentage retained
(gm)
1. 80 0.00 0.00 100.00 0.00

2. 40 0.00 0.00 100.00 0.00

3. 20 53.00 1.77 98.23 1.77

4. 10 2938.50 97.95 0.28 99.72

5. 4.75 5.50 0.18 0.10 99.90

6. Pan 3.00 0.10 0.00

Total 3000.0 SUM 201.38+500=701.38

FM= 7.01

Table no 3.3: Sieve analysis of Coarse aggregates (20mm)

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 Weight of sample taken=3000gm

SI.NO IS-Sieve Weight Percentage Percentage Cumulative

(mm) Retained (gm) retained passing percentage
retained

1. 100 0.00 0.00 100.00 0.00

2. 80 0.00 0.00 100.00 0.00

3. 40 0.00 0.00 100.00 0.00

4. 20 0.00 0.00 100.00 0.00

5. 10 2012.00 67.07 32.93 67.07

6. 4.75 958.00 31.93 1.00 99.00

7. Pan 30.00 1.00 0.00

Total 3000.0 SUM 166.07+500=666.07

FM=

Table no 3.4: Sieve analysis of Coarse aggregates (10mm)

B. FINE AGGREAGTES:

Those particles passing the 9.5 mm (3/8 in.) Sieve, almost entirely passing the 4.75 mm
(No. 4) sieve, and predominantly retained on the 75 µm (No. 200) sieve are called fine
aggregate. For increased workability and for economy as reflected by use of less cement, the
fine aggregate should have a rounded shape. The purpose of the fine aggregate is to fill the
voids in the coarse aggregate and to act as a workability agent.

10
 Fig no 3.3: Fine aggregates
According to the size, the fine aggregates may be described as coarse, medium and fine
sands. Depending upon the particle size distribution IS: 383-1970 has divided the fne
aggregates into four grading zones (Grade I to IV).

Weight of sample taken=1000gm

SI.NO Is-sieve (mm) Wt.Retained %age %age Cumulative

(gm) retained passing % retained

1. 4.75 6 0.6 99.4 0.6

2. 2.36 59 5.9 93.5 6.5

3. 1.18 220 22 71.5 28.5

4. 600µ 159 15.9 55.6 44.4

5. 300µ 316.5 31.65 23.95 76.05

6. 150µ 196.5 19.65 4.3 95.70

7. Pan 43 4.3 0.0

Total 1000.0 SUM 251.75

FM= 2.51

Table no 3.5: Sieve analysis of Fine aggregates

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3.2.3 : COCONUT FIBER

Coir fiber is a natural fiber obtained from coconut shells used in carpets, wipers,
brushes, mattresses and concrete. Coconut fiber obtained from coconut shells is inexpensive
and can be purchased locally in many tropical and semi-tropical countries. Compared to other
natural fibers, coconut fiber can withstand 4 to 6 times the tension. In recent years, the potential
of using coconut fiber to improve the performance of cement-based materials has attracted the
attention of researchers.
Coconut fiber is widely used in sheet, roof, concrete and other building materials.
Cement mixtures reinforced with coconut fibers and castings of 1 to 2 MPa are currently used
as inexpensive roofs. Coconut is a fibrous substance involving the hard-inner shell and outer
layer of coconut. 10mm, 15mm and 20mm long fibers were used in this test as shown in the
fig.

Fig 3.4: Coir fiber

3.2.4 Water

The potable water is a general recommendation for mixing and curing of concrete. Hence this
potable water is used for manufacturing concrete. The water is considerably free from any dangerous
toxins and hence is capable for use in the concrete mixture.

3.3 MIX DESIGN OF CONCRETE:

Concrete mix design is a procedure of selecting the suitable ingredients of concrete and
their relative proportions with an objective to prepare concrete of certain minimum strength,
desired workability and durability as economically (value engineered) as possible.
As we decide to go for a concrete mix design, collect the following data before hand as
few design stipulation are freezed on the basis of these data.
3.3.1 PRELIMINARY DATA REQUIRED FOR MIX DESIGN:

Purely governed on the local conditions, were the concrete need to be applied

Exposure Condition: Exposure Conditions of the structure: The general environment, to

which the concrete will be exposed during its service life, is categorized into five classes to
severity, as per IS 456.

12
 Fig 3.5: Concrete Mixing

SI.NO Environmental Exposure condition

i. Mild Concrete surfaces protected against weather or
aggressive conditions, expect those situated in
coastal area.

ii. Moderate Concrete surface sheltered from severe rain or

freezing whilst wet concrete exposed to
condensation and rain concrete continuously
under water concrete in contact or buried under
nonaggressive soil/ground water concrete surface
sheltered from saturated salt air in coastal area

iii. Severe Concrete surfaces exposed to severe rain, alternate

wetting and drying or occasional freezing whilst
wet or server condition. Concrete compulsory
Immersed in sea water concrete exposed to coastal
environment

iv. Very severe Concrete surfaces exposed to sea water spay.

Corrosion fumes or severe freezing conditions
whilst wet concrete in contact with or buried
under aggressive sub-soil/ground water

v. Surface of members in tidal zone members in direct

Extreme contact with liquid/solid aggressive chemicals

Table 3.6 Environmental Exposure condition (clauses 8.2.2.1 and 35.32 )

13
 The exposure condition limits the minimum cement content, maximum water – cement
ratio and minimum grade of concrete.
As per exposure condition, you have the above data for working the first trial and
arriving its mix proportion.
If you are getting desired result at lower cement content, you need to put extra as
mentioned by IS 456.

Minimum thickness of member: Size of aggregate should not be more than one-fourth of the
minimum thickness of member, mostly 20 mm nominal size aggregate is suitable for most
works. It is always suggested to go the maximum nominal size of aggregate to save on quantity
of cement per unit of concrete.

Cement Grade: Cement type/grade locally available that can be made available throughout
construction period

Workability: Placing condition of concrete governs its workability, low – slump of 25-75 mm
(lightly reinforced sections in slab, beam, and column) to high – slump of 100-150 mm (slip
form, pumped concrete).

Stipulation for Proportioning Concrete Ingredients

(a) Characteristic compressive strength required in the field at 28 days grade designation - M
30
(b) Type of Cement : OPC 53 Grade confirming to IS 12269

(b) Maximum Nominal size of aggregate : 20 mm

(c) Shape of CA : Angular

(d) Workability required at site : 100 mm (slump)

(e) Type of exposure the structure will be subjected to (as defined in IS: 456) — Moderate
(h) Method of concrete placing : Pump able concrete

(i) Test data of material

The following materials are to be tested in the laboratory and results are to be ascertained for
the design mix
(a) Cement Used : OPC 53 Grade Confirming to IS 12269

(b) Specific Gravity of Cement : 3.10

(c) Chemical admixture : Super plasticizer confirming to IS 9103 (d)

Specific gravity
Specific gravity of Fine Aggregate (sand) : 2.70
14
Specific gravity of Coarse Aggregate : 2.80

(e) Water Absorption

Coarse Aggregate : 0.4%

Fine Aggregate : 1.0%

(f) Free (surface) moisture

Coarse Aggregate : Nil

Fine Aggregate : Nil

Aggregate are assumed to be in saturated surface dry condition usually while preparing design
mix.
(g) Sieve Analysis

Fine aggregates : Confirming to Zone II of Table 4 IS – 383

3.4 Mix Design of M30 Grade Concrete

Step 1: Determining the Target Strength for Mix Proportioning

FCK|= fck + 1.65 x S

Where,

FCK|= Target average compressive strength at 28 days

fck = Characteristic compressive strength at 28 days
S = Assumed standard deviation in N/mm2 = 5 (as per table -1 of IS 10262-2009)

= 30 + 1.65 x 5.0 = 38.25 N/mm2

Table 3.7: Assumed standard deviation

15
Step 2 Selection of water-cement ratio:-
From Table 5 of IS 456, Maximum water-cement ratio = 0.45

Note: Do not start with w/c ratio above 0.50, even though the other desired results like Strength,
workability could be achieved.

Table 3.8: clauses 6.12, 8.2.4.1 and 9.12

Step 3 Selection of Water Content

Maximum water content for 20 mm aggregate = 186 Kg (for 25 to 50 slump)

Table 3.9: maximum water content per cubic metre of concrete for nominal maximum
size of aggregates
We are targeting a slump of 100mm, we need to increase water content by 3% for every
25mm above 50 mm i.e. increase 6% for 100mm slump

I.e. Estimated water content for 100 Slump = 186+ (6/100) X 186 = 197litres

Water content = 197 liters

16
STEP 4 – Calculation of Cement Content
Water-Cement Ratio = 0.45

Water content from Step – 3 i.e. 197 liters

Cement Content = Water content / ―w-c ratio‖ = (197/0.45) = 438 kgs

From Table 5 of IS 456,

Minimum cement Content for moderate exposure condition = 300 kg/m3

438 kg/m3 > 300 kg/m3, hence, OK.

As per clause 8.2.4.2 of IS: 456

Maximum cement content = 450 kg/m3, hence ok too.

STEP 5: Proportion of Volume of Coarse Aggregate and Fine aggregate Content From
Table 3 of IS 10262- 2009, Volume of coarse aggregate corresponding to 20 mm size and fine
aggregate (Zone II) = 0.62

Table 3.10: Volume of coarse aggregates per unit volume of total aggregates for different
zones of fine aggregates
Note 1: In the present case water-cement ratio is 0.45.So there will be no change in coarse
aggregate volume i.e. 0.62
Note 2: Incase the coarse aggregate is not angular one, then also volume of coarse aggregate
may be required to be increased suitably based on experience.

17
STEP 6: Estimation of Concrete Mix Calculations

The mix calculations per unit volume of concrete shall be as follows:

1. Volume of concrete = 1 m3

2. Volume of cement = (Mass of cement / Specific gravity of cement) x (1/100)

= (438/3.10) x (1/1000) = 0.14 m3

3. Volume of water = (Mass of water / Specific gravity of water) x (1/1000)

= (197/1) x (1/1000) = 0.197 m3
4. Total Volume of Aggregates = 1- (b+c) =1- (0.125+0.197) = 0.678 m3
5. Mass of coarse aggregates = d X Volume of Coarse Aggregate X Specific
Gravity of Coarse Aggregate X 1000
= 0.678 X 0.62 X 2.80 X 1000
= 1177 kgs/m3
6. Mass of fine aggregates = d X Volume of Fine Aggregate X Specific Gravity of
Coarse Aggregate X 1000
= 0.678 X 0.40 X 2.70 X 1000 = 732 kgs/m3
STEP-7: Concrete Mix proportions for Trial Number 1 Cement
= 438 kg/m3
Water = 197 kg/m3

Fine aggregates = 732 kg/m3

Coarse aggregate = 1177 kg/m3

Water-cement ratio = 0.45

Final trial mix for M30 grade concrete is 1:1.67:2.68 at w/c of 0.45

1 1.67 2.68 0.45

18
 CHAPTER-IV

TEST METHODS USED

Scheme of experimental program

The details of number of blocks to be tested while the experimentation process is given in the
below table:
No of Blocks Required For the Experiment
Percentage of Compressive strength of concrete Split tensile strength of
coir fibre concrete
SI.No
7 days 14 days 28 days 7 days 28 days

1 0% 3 3 3 3 3

2 0.2% 3 3 3 3 3

3 0.4% 3 3 3 3 3

4 0.6% 3 3 3 3 3

5 0.8% 3 3 3 3 3

total 45 cubes 30 cylinders

Table 4.1: Blocks requirement for experiment

In each batch 3cubes, 3 cylinders and 3 prisms were casted. Totally 45cubes, 30
cylinders and 45 prisms were casted during entire experimentation.

Shape and dimensions of the blocks

Fig 4.1: Cube 150mmX150mmX150

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 Fig 4.2: Cylinder 150mm Diameter and 300mm Height

Shape and Dimensions of the Blocks

The shape and dimensions specified for the blocks for different tests are given below table

Shape and Dimensions of Blocks

Type of test Shape of Length(m) Breadth(m) Height(m) Diameter(m)

block Volume
of block
(m3)

Cube 0.15 0.15 0.15 -- 0.00375

Compressive
strength

Cylinder -- -- 0.30 0.15 0.00530

Split tensile
strength

Table 4.2: Shape and dimension

20
 CHAPTER-V

EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION

WORKABILITY TESTING OF CONCRETE

5.1 SLUMP CONE TEST

The concrete slump test is used for the measurement of a property of fresh concrete.
The test is an empirical test that measures the workability of fresh concrete. More specifically,
it measures consistency between batches. The test is popular due to the simplicity of apparatus
used and simple procedure. The slump test result is a measure of the behavior of a compacted
inverted cone of concrete under the action of gravity. It measures the consistency or the wetness
of concrete.

Apparatus

 Slump cone,
 Scale for measurement,
 Temping rod (steel)

PROCEDURE OF CONCRETE SLUMP TEST:

1. The mold for the slump test is a frustum of a cone, 300 mm (12 in) of height. The base
is 200 mm (8in) in diameter and it has a smaller opening at the top of 100 mm (4 in).
2. The base is placed on a smooth surface and the container is filled with concrete in three
layers, whose workability is to be tested.
3. Each layer is temped 25 times with a standard 16 mm (5/8 in) diameter steel rod,
rounded at the end.
4. When the mold is completely filled with concrete, the top surface is struck off (leveled
with mould top opening) by means of screening and rolling motion of the temping rod.
5. The mould must be firmly held against its base during the entire operation so that it
could not move due to the pouring of concrete and this can be done by means of handles
or foot - rests brazed to the mould.
6. Immediately after filling is completed and the concrete is leveled, the cone is slowly
and carefully lifted vertically, an unsupported concrete will now slump.
7. The decrease in the height of the center of the slumped concrete is called slump. The
slump is measured by placing the cone just besides the slump concrete and the temping
rod is placed over the cone so that it should also come over the area of slumped concrete.
8. The decrease in height of concrete to that of mould is noted with scale. (Usually
measured to the nearest 5 mm (1/4 in).

21
 Fig: 5.1 Slump cone test

PRECAUTIONS
In order to reduce the influence on slump of the variation in the surface friction, the
inside of the mould and its base should be moistened at the beginning of every test, and prior
to lifting of the mould the area immediately around the base of the cone should be cleaned from
concrete which may have dropped accidentally.

5.2 COMPACTION FACTOR TEST

It includes conical hoppers installed above a cylindrical mildew.

1. The specimen of cement is set tenderly in the best container, utilizing trowel.
2. The container is packed stage with its overflow and the tempt entryway is opened all
together that the solid falls into the lower container.
3. Immediately after the solid has stopped , the bait entryway of the lower container is
opened, and the solid is permitted to fall in to the chamber.
4. The additional of solid extreme over the level of the highest point of the barrel is then
cut off by methods for a trowel and the out of entryways of the chamber is then wiped
clean.
5. The weight of the solid inside the chamber is then resolved to the nearest 10g. That is
known as the heap of the somewhat compacted concrete.
6. The Cylinder is refilled with concrete from the indistinguishable example in layers and
nearly smashed to gain full compaction.
7. The best surface of the completely compacted solid will be mindfully hit off stage with
the highest point of the barrel. The outside of the chamber might then be wiped simple.

Fig 5.2: compaction factor apparatus

22
CALCULATION:

The compaction thing is decided because the ratio of the burden of in part compacted
concrete to the load of fully compacted concrete and is stated to the closest second decimal
point.

5.3 CASTING OF CUBES AND CYLINDERS

Casting of cubes and cylinders as done for M60 grade concrete, the mix proportion is
for which we are casting cubes for normal concrete, with the partial replacement of concrete
silica fume and Marble powder

Compaction: Filling the Cube Moulds and Compacting the Concrete

After the sample has been remixed, immediately fill the cube moulds and compact the
concrete, either by hand or by vibration. Any air trapped in the concrete will reduce the strength
of the cube. Hence, the cubes must be fully compacted.
However, care must also be taken not to over compact the concrete as this may cause
segregation of the aggregates and cement paste in the mix. This may also reduce the final
compressive strength.

Fig: 5.3 casting cube moulds

23
5.4 COMPACTION WITH COMPACTING BAR

150 mm moulds should be filled in three approximately equal layers (50 mm deep). A
compacting bar is provided for compacting the concrete. It is a 380 mm long steel bar, weighs
1.8 kg and has a 25 mm square end for ramming. During the compaction of each layer with the
compacting bar, the strokes should be distributed in a uniform manner over the surface of the
concrete and each layer should be compacted to its full depth. During the compaction of the
first layer, the compacting bar should not forcibly strike the bottom of the mould. For
subsequent layers, the compacting bar should pass into the layer immediately below. The
minimum number of strokes per layer required to produce full compaction will depend upon
the workability of the concrete, but at least 35 strokes will be necessary except in the case of
very high workability concrete. After the top layer has been compacted, a trowel should be used
to finish off the surface level with the top of the mould, and the outside of the mould should be
wiped clean.

Fig: 5.4 Compacting the concrete in the cube mould(For 150 mm cube at least 25 tamps
per layer)

Fig: 5.5 Finishing

24
 Fig. 5.6 cylindrical moulds

5.5 CURING

The concrete specimens were cured using six different techniques until when their
compressive strengths were determined at ages 7,28 days and 56. The curing techniques that
were applied are:
1. Water Submerged Curing (WSC): This involved the submersion of the concrete cube
specimens in water.
2. Spray Curing (SC): This involved the spraying of water on the concrete cube specimens
twice daily.
3. Polythene Curing (PC): The specimens were covered with at least two layers of polythene
membrane to prevent moisture movement from the concrete specimens.
4. Burlap Curing (BC): This involved covering the concrete cube specimens underneath
burlap which was kept wet periodically.
5. Moist Sand Curing (MSC): This involved burying the entire concrete cube specimens in
wet sand which was kept moist by wetting with water on a daily basis.
6. Air Curing (AC): This served as the control. It involved no form of active curing by just
exposing the specimens to ambient air in the Laboratory. All the curing methods, except
that of moist sand were carried out in the laboratory under the same environmental
conditions of 27°C temperature and 75% relative humidity. Moist sand curing was done
outside the laboratory and exposed to varying environmental condition.

25
 Fig: 5.7 curing of specimens

5.6 Test to be conducted on the specimens:

Compressive strength

• 7 days specimens age

• 14 days specimens age
• 28 days specimens age

Split tensile strength of specimens

• 7 days specimens age 28 days specimens age

5.7 TESTING:

5.7.1 COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH TEST:

This test was conducted as per ([9] IS516-1959). The cubes of standard size
150x150x150mm were used to find the compressive strength of concrete. Specimens were
placed on the bearing surface of CTM, of capacity 200T without eccentricity and a uniform
rate of loading applied till the failure of the cube. The maximum load was noted and the
compressive strength ([21] AS Alnuaimi,) was calculated.

26
 Fig No 5.8 Casting of cubes

Compressive strength testing procedure from IS516-1959:

Placing the Specimen in the Testing Machine:

The bearing surface of the testing machine shall be wiped clean and any loose sand are
other material removed from the surface the specimen which are to be in contact with the
compression platens. In the case of cubes, the specimens shall be placed in the machine in such
a manner that the load shall applied two opposite sides of the cube as cast, that is not to the top
and bottom. The axis of the specimen shall be carefully aligned with of thrust of the spherically
seated platen. No packing shall be used between the faces of the test specimen and the steel
platen of the testing machine. As the spherically seated block is brought bear on the specimen,
the movable portion shall be rotated gently by hand so that uniform seating may be obtained.

Fig No 5.9 Compressive strength testing machine

The load shall applied without shock and increased continuously at a rate of
approximately 140kg/cm2/min until the resistance of the specimen to be increasing load breaks
down and no greater load can be sustained. The maximum load applied to the specimen shall
then be recorded and appearance of the concrete and any unusual features in the type of failure
shall be noted.

27
Calculation:
The measured compressive strength of specimen shall be calculated by dividing the
maximum load applied to the specimen during the test cross– sectional area, calculated from
the mean dimensions of the section and shall be expressed to the nearest kg/cm2. Average of
three values taken as the representative of the batch provided the individual variation is not
more than ± 15 percent of average. Otherwise repeat test shall be made.

The compressive strength of cube = (P/A) N/mm2

Where,

P is load at failure in N,

A is area of cube/contact in mm2

5.7.2 SPLIT TENSILE STRENGTH TEST:

This test was conducted as per IS516-1959. The cylinders of standard size
150mmx300mm were used find the strength of concrete. Specimens are placed on the bearing
surface of CTM, of capacity 200T without eccentricity and a uniform rate of loading is applied
till the failure of cylinder. The maximum load was noted and the strength was calculated. Split
tensile strength testing Procedure from IS5816-1999: Placing of the specimen the Testing
Machine:
The bearing surface of the testing machine and of the loading strips shall be wiped clean.
Positioning: The test specimen shall be placed in the centering with packing strip and/or loading
pieces carefully positioning along the top and top and bottom of the plane of the loading
specimen.

The jig shall be placed in the machine so that specimen is located centrally. In the case of
cubic specimen, the load shall be applied on the molded faces in such a way that a fracture plan
will cross the trowel led surface. For cylindrical specimen it shall be ensure that the upper
platen is parallel with lower platen.

RATE OF LOADING:

The load shall be applied without shock and increased continuously at a nominal rate
within in the range 1.2 N/mm/min to 2.4N/mm/min. ( IS 5816 (1999))maintain the rate, once
adjusted, until failure one manually controlled machines as failure is approached the loading
rate will decrease; at this stage the controls shall be operated to maintain as per as possible the
specified loading rate. The maximum load applied shall then be recorded. The appearance of
concrete and any unusual features in the type failure shall be noted.

28
 Fig No 5.10 Split Tensile Strength Testing

Calculation:
The split tensile strength is calculated as loading condition such that the load is applied
on top and bottom of the cylinder on its lateral surface, to the area equal to the lateral surface
area of the cylinder.

The split tensile strength = (2P/πdl) N/mm2

Where,

P= average load in N,
d=diameter of cylinder in mm,
l=length of cylinder in mm.

29
 CHAPTER-VI

RESULTS AND ANALYSIS

WORKABILITY OF CONCRETE

SLUMP CONE TEST

S. No Percentage Coir Fibre Slump in mm

1 0.00 60

2 0.20 50

3 0.40 45

4 0.60 35

5 0.80 30

Table 6.1: Results Of Slump Cone Test

Comparison of slump cone test results

70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
0.00 0.20 0.40 0.60 0.80
Percentage coir fiber

Table 6.1: Results Of Slump Cone Test

30
COMPACTION FACTOR TEST

S.NO Percentage Coir Fibre Compaction factor

1 0.00 0.78

2 0.20 0.8

3 0.40 0.83

4 0.60 0.85

5 0.80 0.87

Table 6.2: Results Of Compaction Factor Test

Compaction factor test results

0.88
0.86
0.84
0.82
0.8
0.78
0.76
0.74
0.72
0.00 0.20 0.40 0.60 0.80
Percentage coir fiber

Graph 6. 2: Compaction factor test results

31
STRENGTH OF CONCRETE

Percentage 7days average Area of specimen 7days compressive

S.NO
Coir Fibre load (KN) in mm2 strength in MPa

1 0.00 710 150*150 31

2 0.20 750 150*150 33

3 0.40 770 150*150 34

4 0.60 700 150*150 31

5 0.80 640 150*150 28

Table 6.3:Results Of 7 Days Compressive Strength

7days compressive strength in Mpa

40
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
0.00 0.20 0.40 0.60 0.80
Percentage coir fiber

32
 Graph 6.3: 7days compressive strength in Mpa

Percentage 14 days average Area of specimen 14 days compressive

S.NO
Coir Fibre load (KN) in mm2 strength in MPa

1 0.00 970 150*150 43

2 0.20 1020 150*150 45

3 0.40 1060 150*150 47

4 0.60 950 150*150 42

5 0.80 880 150*150 39

Table 6.4: Results Of 14 Days Compressive Strength

14 days compressive strength

50
45
40
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
0.00 0.20 0.40 0.60 0.80
Percentage coir fiber

Graph 6.4: 14 days compressive strength

33
 Percentage 28days average Area of 28 days compressive
S.NO
Coir Fibre load (KN) specimen in mm strength in MPa

1 0.00 1080 150*150 48

2 0.20 1140 150*150 50

3 0.40 1180 150*150 52

4 0.60 1060 150*150 47

5 0.80 980 150*150 43

Table 6.5: Results Of 28 Days Compressive Strength

28 days compressive strength in MPa

60

50

40

30

20

10

0
0.00 0.20 0.40 0.60 0.80
Percentage coir fiber

Graph 6.5: 28 days compressive strength in MPa

34
COMPARISON OF COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH

Percentage 7days compressive 14 days compressive 28 days compressive

S.NO
Coir Fibre strength in Mpa strength in MPa strength in MPa

1 0.00 31 43 48

2 0.20 33 45 50

3 0.40 34 47 52

4 0.60 31 42 47

5 0.80 28 39 43

Table 6.6: Comparison Of Compressive Strength

Comparison of compressive strength

60

50

40 7days compressive
strength in Mpa
30
14 days compressive
20 strength in MPa
10 28 days compressive
strength in MPa
0
0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8
Percentage coir fiber

Graph 6.6: Comparison Of Compressive Strength

35
SPLIT TENSILE STRENGTH

Percentage 7days average 7days Split tensile

S.NO
Coir Fibre load (KN) strength in Mpa

1 0.00 220 3.1

2 0.20 240 3.4

3 0.40 260 3.67

4 0.60 290 4.1

5 0.80 200 2.8

Table 6.7: Results Of 7 Days Split Tensile Strength

7 days spilt tensile strength

4.5
4
3.5
3
2.5
2
1.5
1
0.5
0
0.00 0.20 0.40 0.60 0.80
Percentage coir fiber

Graph 6.7: Results Of 7 Days Split Tensile Strength

36
 Percentage 28 days average 28 Days Split tensile
S.no
Coir Fibre load (KN) strength in MPa

1 0.00 340 4.8

2 0.20 360 5

3 0.40 385 5

4 0.60 345 4.88

5 0.80 325 4.5

Table 6.8: Results Of 28 Days Split Tensile Strength

28 Days Split tensile strength in MPa

5.1
5
4.9
4.8
4.7
4.6
4.5
4.4
4.3
4.2
0.00 0.20 0.40 0.60 0.80

Percentage coir fiber

Graph 6.8: Results Of 28 Days Split Tensile Strength

37
COMPARISON OF SPLIT TENSILE STRENGTH

Percentage Coir 7days Split tensile 28 Days Split tensile

S.NO
Fibre strength in Mpa strength in MPa

1 0.00 3.1 4.8

2 0.20 3.4 5

3 0.40 3.67 5

4 0.60 4.1 4.88

5 0.80 2.8 4.5

Table 6.9: Comparison Of Split Tensile Strength

Comparison of split tensile strength

6
5

0
0.00 0.20 0.40 0.60 0.80
Percentage coir fiber

7days Split tensile strength in Mpa 28 Days Split tensile strength in MPa

Graph 6.9: Comparison Of Split Tensile Strength

38
 CHAPTER-VII

CONCLUSIONS

From this study the following conclusions were made

1. Coconut fiber being low in density reduces the overall weight of the fibre reinforced
concrete thus it can be used as a structural light weight concrete.
2. By reinforcing the concrete with coconut fibers which are freely available, we can
reduce the environmental waste.
3. The value of slump decreases with increasing the percentage of coir fibre from 0% to
0.8% for M30 grade concrete.
4. The value of compaction factor increases with increasing the percentage of coir fibre
from 0% to 0.8% for M30 grade concrete.
5. The maximum value of compressive strength was observed at 0.6% coir fibre for 7
days, 14days and 28 days curing period
6. The maximum value of split tensile strength was observed at 0.6% coir fibre for
days and 28 days curing period
7. The results suggest that short coconut fibers are more effective in enhancing the
performance of concrete.
8. It is a versatile material reported as most ductile and energy absorbent have wide scope
in earthquake prone areas as well as in marine structures.

39
REFERENCES:

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Compressive Strength of Concrete By Using Coconut Fibers”, International Journal of
Advanced Research in Science, Communication and Technology (IJARSCT) Volume 2, Issue 1,
June 2022
[2]. Yashwanth M K ,Sushmitha G S , et al.,(2021), “Evaluation of Compressive Strength of
Coir Fiber Reinforced Concrete”, Turkish Journal of Computer and Mathematics Education
Vol.12 No.10(2021), 68-73.

[3]. Anjali Dhamala et al.,(2023)“STUDY ON REINFORCED CONCRETE

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[4]. Soumen Santra, Jaydeep Chowdhury et al.,(2016)A Comparative Study on Strength

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[5]. Suraj Singh Bisht, Ankit Singh et al., (2022) “STUDY ON COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH
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[6]. P.Chaitanya D. Sai Priyanka et al.,(2022)Strength Characteristics of Coconut Fiber

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[7]. Ankit Sharma,Jaspreet Singh et al., (2017)THE STUDY OF STRENGTH

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[8]. International Journal of Engineering Research & Technology (IJERT)

40