A Prototype Design of Jute Fiber Reinforced Concrete

Studies have shown that concrete is the single most widely used material in the world. It is characterized by high compressive strength but has relatively low tensile strength. Internal cracks are present in concrete and its poor tensile strength is due to propagation of such micro cracks leading to brittle fraction of concrete. This study aims to provide an economical, eco-friendly and more efficient material that can be used in the construction world. The study contributes to the great pool of knowledge and promotion of ecological engineering. The study concentrates on the improvement of the flexural, tensile and compressive strength of reinforced concrete by adding jute fiber. It is based on American Standard for Testing and Materials (ASTM) and Universal testing machine (UTM) was used upon conducting tests. The samples were tested at the Universal Testing Laboratory and Inspection, Inc. (UTLII) Assessment shows that the sample with 0.85% jute is the most efficient for composite concrete mix for non-load bearing. Its strength for cylinder specimen in compressive test is 22.13 Mpa and split tensile test is 3.38 Mpa while the strength for beam specimen in flexural test is 5.4Mpa. The estimated cost of concrete with jute fiber costs 13.25php per piece while concrete without jute fiber costs P 13.48php per piece. By comparison concrete with jute fiber costs less than plain concrete by 1.71%.