Análisis de las propiedades de un hormigón con fibras de vástago de plátano para uso de pavimentos rígidos en la Ciudad de Cuenca

Abstract

This research aims to analyze the mechanical properties of concrete with the addition of banana stem plant fibers based on various tests conducted on fine and coarse aggregates obtained from the Rookaazul mine, including granulometric analysis, moisture percentage, absorption, and in the case of gravel, abrasion wear tests, which were carried out in the laboratory of the Catholic University of Cuenca. In addition, the appropriate treatment that can be used on plant fibers to eliminate impurities and improve their adhesive capacity was investigated. All these tests were fundamental in determining the optimal design of the concrete mix. Twenty-four concrete specimens of f'c 350kg/cm2, including 12 cylinders and 12 beams, were made with and without adding banana stem fibers for curing ages of 7, 14, and 28 days. The plant fibers were incorporated into the concrete mix in 3 different percentages, 0.1%, 0.3%, and 0.5%, under surface saturation conditions to prevent the fibers from absorbing water from the mix. In order to determine the properties of the concrete, compressive and flexural strength tests were carried out, obtaining satisfactory results with the application of fibers in higher percentages, demonstrating an increase in strength compared to conventional or concrete without fibers.