CFR C Final Report

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coconut ﬁbre reinforced concrete
Research · April 2015

DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.1.3609.0405
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A PROJECT REPORT ON
COCONUT FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE
submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the degree of
BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOGY
IN
CIVIL ENGINEERING
Submitted by
ADITYA TOM (Reg.No. 10001911)

ANUSHREE S (Reg.No. 10001929)
DIYA MARIA VARGHESE (Reg.No. 10001942)
JERIN ANTONY (Reg.No. 10001947)
DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

AMAL JYOTHI COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
KANJIRAPPALLY, KERALA – 686518
APRIL 2014
AFFILIATED TO MAHATMA GANDHI UNIVERSITY

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING
AMAL JYOTHI COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
KANJIRAPPALLY
BONAFIDE CERTIFICATE
Certified that this project work entitled “Coconut Fibre Reinforced Concrete” is an
authentic record of project work done by Aditya Tom (Reg.No. 10001911), Anushree
S (Reg.No. 10001929), Diya Maria Varghese (Reg.No. 10001942) and Jerin Antony
(Reg.No. 1000194), towards the partial fulfillment of requirements for the award of
degree Bachelor Of Technology degree in Civil Engineering, MG University,
Kottayam, Kerala
Ms. Jiss Abraham Sr. Claramma Rosary

Asst. Professor / Project Guide Professor and Head
Department of Civil Engineering
Ms. Cini Philip Amal Jyothi College Of Engineering
Asst. Professor / Project Guide
Date: May 2014

Place: Kanjirapally
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We take this opportunity to express our deep sense of gratitude to each and every one
who lend us a helping hand in our research. First and foremost we thank God
Almighty for showering his immense blessings upon us throughout this venture.
We owe a lot to Sr. Claramma Rosary (Head of the department), for her keen
interest and support whenever in need. We are overwhelmed by the sincerity and
concern of our guides Ms. Jiss Abraham (Asst. Professor, Department of Civil
Engineering) and Ms. Cini Philip (Asst. Professor, Department of Civil Engineering).
Their valuable inputs, constant encouragement and constructive feedback kept us in
the right track and motivated, which helped us in timely completion of this work. We
also thank Dr. Mini Mathew (Assoc. Professor, Department of Civil Engineering) for
her guidance. This project would have been nothing if it wasn’t for Mrs. Sheena P
Abraham, Mrs. Mini Jacob and Mr. V T Thomas who were there to help us in the
laboratory. Special appreciation goes to our classmates Joseph G Tom, Charls K
John and Gino George who helped us overcome the difficulties of lack of manpower.
We also express our sincere gratitude to other staff members, Department of Civil
Engineering and our parents for their encouragement and support.
ADITYA TOM
ANUSHREE S
DIYA MARIA VARGHESE
JERIN ANTONY
i
ABSTRACT
Keywords : Compressive strength, Tensile strength, Flexural strength, CFRC, Fibre

mesh
Sustainability is a wide accepted concept in modern construction scenario. Even

though the construction industry is revolutionizing in a significant manner in terms of
both equipment and materials used, the cost of construction has skyrocketed along
with the deteriorative impact on environment. This resulted in the adoption of a more
balanced approach with the environment as its nerve centre to create a better world to
live in. This has led to the adoption of a natural fibre like Coconut for the strength
enhancement in concrete
Coconut fibre is available in abundance at the test site, which makes it quite viable as
a reinforcement material in concrete. Further, it acts as a new source of income for the
coconut producer who gets the benefits of the new demand generated by the
construction industry. In addition to this, it is an effective method for the disposal of
coir mattress waste which will reduce the demand for additional waste disposal
infrastructure and decrease the load on existing landfills and incinerators.The problem
of high rate of water absorption of the fibre could be reduced by coating the fibres
with oil. Moreover the fibres being natural in origin is ecologically sustainable and
can bring down the global carbon footprint quite effectively.
This study aimed at analyzing the variation in strength of coconut fiber (oil coated
raw and oil coated processed fibres) reinforced concrete at varying fibre contents and
to compare it with that of conventional concrete. The various strength aspects
analyzed are the flexural, compressive and tensile strength of the coconut fiber
reinforced concrete at varying percentages (4%,5%,6% by the weight of cement) of
fibre. The influence of shape of fibre on strength is also studied by testing on coconut
fibre mesh of predetermined dimensions. The optimal percentage of both the
processed fibre strands and raw fibre meshes were found out by trial and error and the
optimum percentage of superplasticizerneeded for the required workability was also
determined.
ii
CONTENTS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ........................................................................................................ i
ABSTRACT ..............................................................................................................................ii
LIST OF TABLES .................................................................................................................. vi
LIST OF FIGURES ...............................................................................................................vii
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS. ................................................................................................ x
1. INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................ 1
1.1 BACKGROUND ......................................................................................................... 1
1.2 NEED FOR STUDY ................................................................................................... 2
1.3 OBJECTIVES AND SCOPE ...................................................................................... 2
1.4 METHODOLOGY ...................................................................................................... 3
1.5 ORGANISATION OF REPORT ................................................................................ 3
2. LITERATURE REVIEW ................................................................................................ 4
2.1 OVERVIEW................................................................................................................ 4
2.2 FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE ......................................................................... 4
2.3 COCONUT FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE ..................................................... 4
3. METHODOLOGY ........................................................................................................... 7
3.1 LITERATURE REVIEW ............................................................................................ 7
3.2 COLLECTION OF RAW MATERIALS ................................................................... 7
3.3 MATERIAL TESTS ................................................................................................... 7
3.3.1 TESTS ON CEMENT..........................................................................................7
3.3.2 TESTS ON COARSE AGGREGATE ...............................................................10
3.3.3 TESTS ON FINE AGGREGATE ......................................................................12
3.4 MIX DESIGN ........................................................................................................... 13
3.5 MIXING OF CONCRETE ........................................................................................ 13
3.6 CASTING AND CURING........................................................................................ 14
iii
3.6.1 CASTING OF RAW AND PROCESSED COIR FIBRE REINFORCED
CONCRETE .....................................................................................................................14
3.7 TESTING OF SPECIMEN ....................................................................................... 14
4. STUDY ON MATERIALS USED ................................................................................. 16
4.1 OVERVIEW.............................................................................................................. 16
4.2 CEMENT .................................................................................................................. 16
4.3 FINE AGGREGATE................................................................................................. 17
4.4 COARSE AGGREGATE.......................................................................................... 18
4.5 WATER..................................................................................................................... 18
4.6 COCONUT FIBRE ................................................................................................... 18
4.6.1 RAW FIBRE ......................................................................................................19
4.6.2 PROCESSED FIBRES ......................................................................................19
4.7 TESTS ON MATERIALS – RESULTS AND DISCUSSION ................................ 20
4.7.1 TESTS ON CEMENT........................................................................................20
4.7.2 TESTS ON COARSE AGGREGATE ...............................................................21
4.7.3 TESTS ON FINE AGGREGATE ......................................................................24
4.8 SUMMARY OF MATERIAL PROPERTIES .......................................................... 28
4.8.1 PROPERTIES OF CEMENT ............................................................................28
4.8.2 PROPERTIES OF FINE AGGREGATES ........................................................29
4.8.3 PROPERTIES OF COARSE AGGREGATES .................................................30
5. CASTING AND TESTING OF CONCRETE SPECIMEN ....................................... 31
5.1 TESTS ON FRESH CONCRETE ............................................................................. 31
5.1.1 SLUMP TEST ....................................................................................................31
5.2 TESTS ON HARDENED CONCRETE ................................................................... 31
5.2.1 COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH TEST ...............................................................31
5.2.2 SPLIT TENSILE STRENGTH TEST ...............................................................32
5.2.3 FLEXURAL STRENGTH TEST ......................................................................32
iv
5.3 EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE ........................................................................... 33
5.3.1 MIX DESIGN ....................................................................................................33
5.3.2 CASTING PROCEDURE .................................................................................39
5.4 TEST RESULTS AND ANALYSIS ........................................................................ 43
5.4.1 SLUMP TEST ....................................................................................................43
5.4.2 COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH ..........................................................................43
5.4.3 SPLIT TENSILE STRENGTH TEST ...............................................................49
5.4.4 FLEXURAL STRENGTH TEST ......................................................................54
6. CONCLUSION ............................................................................................................... 60
6.1 LIMITATIONS OF THE PROJECT ........................................................................ 62
6.2 FUTURE SCOPE ...................................................................................................... 62
7. REFERENCES ............................................................................................................... 63
v
LIST OF TABLES
Table 4.1: Results of sieve analysis conducted on Sample .......................................... 23
Table 4.2 : Results of sieve analysis conducted on Sample 1 ...................................... 26
Table 4.3 : Results of sieve analysis conducted on Sample 2 ...................................... 27
Table 4.4 : Properties of Cement ................................................................................. 29
Table 4.5 : Properties of Fine Aggregate ..................................................................... 29
Table 4.6 : Properties of Coarse Aggregate ................................................................. 30
Table 5.1 : Approximate Entrapped Air Content ......................................................... 36
Table 5.2 : Quantity of materials required for each mix .............................................. 38
Table 5.3 : Slump test on Trial Mixes.......................................................................... 43
Table 5.4 : Compressive Strength of Conventional Concrete Cubes........................... 44
Table 5.5 : Compressive Strength of Processed CFRC cubes ..................................... 45
Table 5.6 : Compressive Strength of Raw CFRC Cubes ............................................. 47
Table 5.7 : Split tensile strength for processed Plain Concrete cylinders .................... 50
Table 5.8 : Split tensile strength for processed CFRC cylinders ................................. 50
Table 5.9 : Split tensile strength for raw CFRC cylinders ........................................... 52
Table 5.10 : Comparison of post peak load failure in raw and processed CFRC ........ 54
Table 5.11 : Flexural strength for Plain Concrete Beams ............................................ 55
Table 5.12 : Flexural strength for processed CFRC Beams......................................... 56
Table 5.13 : Flexural strength for raw CFRC Beams .................................................. 58
vi
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 3.1 : Apparatus for Standard Consistency .......................................................... 8
Figure 3.2 : Le Chatelier’s Flask.................................................................................... 9
Figure 3.3 : Apparatus for specific gravity of coarse aggregate .................................. 11
Figure 3.4 : Sieve shaker .............................................................................................. 11
Figure 3.5 : Apparatus for specific gravity .................................................................. 12
Figure 3.6 : Sieve shaker .............................................................................................. 13
Figure 3.7 : Schematic representation of methodology ............................................... 15
Figure 4.1 : M sand ...................................................................................................... 17
Figure 4.2 : Coarse aggregate ...................................................................................... 18
Figure 4.3 : Raw coconut fibre obtained from mattress waste .................................... 19
Figure 4.4 : Processed fibre ......................................................................................... 20
Figure 4.5 : Gradation curve for Coarse Aggregate ..................................................... 24
Figure 4.6 : Gradation Curve for Sample 1.................................................................. 27
Figure 4.7 : Gradation Curve for Sample 2.................................................................. 28
Figure 5.1 : Slump Testing Apparatus ......................................................................... 31
Figure 5.2 : Compression Testing Machine ................................................................. 32
Figure 5.3 : Flexure Testing Machine .......................................................................... 33
Figure 5.4 : Mixing of concrete ................................................................................... 39
Figure 5.5 : Cubes Specimen Placed on Table Vibrator .............................................. 40
Figure 5.6 : Finishing of moulds .................................................................................. 40
Figure 5.7 : Coconut Fibre Strands .............................................................................. 41
Figure 5.8 : Finished fibre reinforced concrete cubes.................................................. 42
vii
Figure 5.9 : Finished fibre reinforced concrete cubes.................................................. 45
Figure 5.10 : Graph showing variation of compressive strength at varying
percentages of fibre ...................................................................................................... 46
Figure 5.13 : Specimen loaded onto the testing apparatus........................................... 49
Figure 5.14 : Graph showing variation of split tensile strength at varying percentages
of fibre (processed) ...................................................................................................... 51
of fibre (processed) ...................................................................................................... 51
of fibre (raw) ................................................................................................................ 52
of fibre (raw) ................................................................................................................ 53
Figure 5.18 : Cracking pattern of Conventional concrete and coconut fibre reinforced
concrete ........................................................................................................................ 53
Figure 5.19 : Specimen loaded onto the testing apparatus........................................... 55
Figure 5.20 : Graph showing variation of Flexural strength at varying percentages of
fibre (processed)........................................................................................................... 56
fibre (processed)........................................................................................................... 57
fibre (raw) .................................................................................................................... 58
viii
fibre (raw) .................................................................................................................... 59
Figure 5.24 : Cracking pattern coconut fibre reinforced concrete beam .................... 59
ix
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
FRC – Fibre Reinforced Concrete
CFRC – Coconut fibre Reinforced Concrete
PCC – Plain Cement Concrete
x
Department Of Civil Engineering 2014
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND
The construction industry is revolutionizing in two major ways. One way is the
development of construction techniques, such as using automated tools in
construction. The other is the advancement in high-performance construction
materials, such as the introduction of high strength concrete. Among these high-
performance materials, fibre reinforced concrete (FRC) is gradually gaining
acceptance from civil engineers. In recent years, research and development of fibres
and matrix materials and fabrication process related to construction industry have
grown rapidly. Their advantages over other construction materials are their high
tensile strength to weight ratio, ability to be moulded into various shapes and potential
resistance to environmental conditions, resulting in potentially low maintenance cost.
These properties make FRC composite a good alternative for innovative construction.
Their application in construction includes both upgrading existing structures and
building new ones, which can apply to various types of structure, for example
offshore platforms, buildings and bridges (Thou, 2005).
A major roadblock towards development of high performance concrete using steel

fibres is the high costs involved, availability and also problem of corrosion. Coconut
fibre being the most ductile among all natural fibres (Majid Ali et al.,2012) has the
potential to be used as a reinforcement material in concrete. It is biodegradable so the
impact on environment will be minimal. This is also a way to dispose off the fibres
which are derived as waste materials from coir based manufacturing units to produce
high strength materials .They are also non-abrasive in nature ,cheap and easily
available. Research work is being carried out to find the possibility of coconut-fibre
ropes as a vertical reinforcement in mortar-free interlocking structures. This is
believed to be a cost-effective solution to earthquake-resistant housing.
The aim of this study was to identify the improvement in strength characteristics of
concrete with the addition of oil coated coconut fibre. In the study, coconut fibre is
added to concrete and Plain Cement Concrete (PCC) is used as reference to study its
effect on flexural, compressive and tensile strength properties and also drying
shrinkage. Fibre is coated with oil so as to decrease the water absorption. Some of the
AmalJyothi College Of Engineering 1

advantages being observed are low-cost, low density, reasonable specific strength,
good thermal insulation, reduced wear and ability to be recycled with minimal impact
on environment (Majid Ali et al.,2011). Thus in addition to the enhancement in the
physical properties of concrete, it turns out to be a sustainable waste management
technique
1.2 NEED FOR STUDY
Coconut fibre with a tensile strength of 21.5 MPa is the toughest among all natural
fibres (Munawar et al., 2003). They are capable of taking strains4–6 times higher than
other fibres (Munawar et al., 2003).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, 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.
1.3 OBJECTIVES AND SCOPE
The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of oil coated coir fibre on physical
properties of concrete
The objectives of this work are:
1. To find out variation in compressive, tensile and flexural strengths of CFRC

using processed fibre strands and raw fibre meshes at varying fibre contents
and to compare it with that of conventional concrete
2. To determine the influence of shape of fibres on strength of concrete
The scope of this project is limited to rural residential constructions.

1.4 METHODOLOGY
Based on the previous research work, a comparison of strength properties of fibre

reinforced concrete is made with respect to conventional concrete and the influence of
shape of fibres on strength are also studied. Tests are conducted using processed
coconut fibres of length 5cm and raw fibre meshes of size 5cm x 5cm after coating
them with coconut oil at varying fibre contents of 4%, 5%, 6% .Material tests were
carried out initially to determine the suitability of materials to be used in concrete.
The mix was designed as per IS 10262 : 2009 at a suitable water content and design
mix was obtained. The mixing was carried out according to standard procedure given
in IS code with sufficient care to ensure that no bleeding occurred throughout the
entire process. Slump tests were carried out to ensure that the mix was workable. The
cubes were then cured for 7 and 28 days and were properly dried in sunlight before
testing.
1.5 ORGANISATION OF REPORT
The complete work is presented in six chapters as follows:
In Chapter 2, review of literature related to natural fibres, Coconut fibre reinforced

concrete and influence of length of fibres on strength are discussed
In Chapter 3, a detailed explanation of the methodology used for this research

work
Chapter 4 gives an overview of various materials used in the test and the material tests
associated with them to determine its suitability in this research
In Chapter 5, interpretation of results, is a detailed outlay of different strength tests on

specimens along with its justification.
Chapter 6 summarizes the study, presents the salient conclusions from the study and
its limitations, and discusses scope for future

2. LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 OVERVIEW
This chapter deals with various research works done on fibre reinforced concrete
including CFRC. The properties of various fibres were studied and the advantages of
coconut fibre over other fibres were highlighted to justify its selection in this research
work.
2.2 FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE
Among the high-performance materials, fibre reinforced concrete (FRC) is gradually

gaining acceptance from civil engineers. In recent years, research and development of
fibres and matrix materials and fabrication process related to construction industry
have grown rapidly. Their advantages over other construction materials are their high
tensile strength to weight ratio, ability to be moulded into various shapes and potential
resistance to environmental conditions, resulting in potentially low maintenance cost.
These properties make FRC composite a good alternative for innovative construction.
Their application in construction includes both upgrading existing structures and
building new ones, which can apply to various types of structure, for example
offshore platforms, buildings and bridges (Thou, 2005)
2.3 COCONUT FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE
(Bhatia, 2001) studied the usefulness of fibre reinforced concrete in various civil
engineering applications. Fibres include steel fibre, natural fibres and synthetic fibres-
each of which lends varying properties to the concrete. The study revealed that the
fibrous material increases the structural integrity. These studies made us adopt natural
fibres which are abundantly available and cheap.
(Chouw et al., 2012) studied the viability of using coconut-fibre ropes as vertical
reinforcement in mortar-free low cost housing in earth quake prone regions. The rope
anchorage is achieved by embedding it in the foundation and top tie-beams. The bond
between the rope and the concrete plays an important role in the stability of the
structure and the rope tensile strength is also found to be fairly high. The rope tension
generated due to earthquake loading should be less than both the pull out force and

the rope tensile load to avoid the structure collapse. The study concluded that the pull
out energy increases with an increase in embedment length, rope diameter, cement
and fibre content in the matrix.
(Li et al., 2007) studied fibre volume fraction by surface treatment with a wetting
agent for coir mesh reinforced mortar using non-woven coir mesh matting. They
performed a four-point bending test and concluded that cementitious composites,
reinforced by three layers of coir mesh with a low fibre content of 1.8%, resulted in
40% improvement in flexural strength compared to conventional concrete. The
composites were found to be 25 times stronger in flexural toughness and about 20
times higher in flexural ductility. To the best knowledge of authors the only research
work on static CFRC properties is the test done on concrete reinforced with coir fibre
of length 4 cm. With regard to dynamic properties of CFRC, no study has been
reported yet. Dynamic tests had been performed only for concrete reinforced by other
fibres, e.g. polyolefin fibres or rubber scrap. To reveal the consequence of fibre length
for CFRC properties, thorough investigations involving more fibre lengths and other
parameters are required in order to arrive at reliable conclusions. The knowledge of
static and dynamic properties of CFRC is essential to understand the potential of such
concrete in cheap housing in earth quake prone regions. But the scope of which
requires stringent investigations CFRC blocks are used as pavement materials in
parking areas to avoid shrinkage crack. The high crack resistance offered by coconut
fibre made us adopt coconut fibre reinforced concrete.
(Reis, 2006) performed third-point loading tests on concrete reinforced with coconut,
sugarcane bagasse and banana fibres to investigate the flexural strength, fracture
toughness and fracture energy. The study revealed that fracture, toughness and energy
of coconut fibre reinforced concrete were the highest compared to other natural fibres
with an increase in flexural strength of up to 25%.The advantages of coconut fibre
over other natural fibres made us conclude to use coconut fibre as the reinforcement
material in our project.
(Asasutjarit et al., (2006) determined the physical (density, moisture content, water
absorption and thickness swelling), mechanical (modulus of elasticity, modulus of
rupture and internal bond) and thermal properties of coir-based light weight cement
board after 28 days of hydration. The physical and mechanical properties were

measured by Japanese Industrial Standard JIS A 5908-1994 and the thermal properties
using JIS R 2618. The parameters studied were fibre length, coir pre-treatment and
mixture ratio. 5 cm long boiled and washed fibres with the optimum cement: fibre:
water weight ratio of 2:1:2 gave the highest modulus of rupture and internal bond
amongst the tested specimens. The board also had a thermal conductivity lower than
other commercial flake board composite. These paper made us choose 5cm fibre
length after proper treatment of the fibre for the removal of the coir dust.
(Liu et al., 2011) studied the influence of 1%, 2%, 3% and 5% at fibre lengths of 2.5,
5 and 7.5 cm on properties of concrete. For a proper analysis the properties of plain
cement concrete was used as reference. It was seen that damping of CFRC beams
increases with the increase in fibre content. It was observed that CFRC with a fibre
length of 5 cm and fibre content of 5% produced the best results. In this study the
optimum percent of coconut fibre added was 5%,which made us to adopt addition of
4%,5% and 6% coconut fibre by weight of cement in our research work.
(Kelleret al., 2005) investigated the shear behaviour of reinforced concrete beams
strengthened by the attachment of different configurations and quantities of carbon
fibres. The study revealed that the strengthening by using carbon fibres increased the
resistance to shear and also spalling of concrete.
The next chapter is methodology which gives a brief idea about the overall aspects of
this research.

3. METHODOLOGY
3.1 LITERATURE REVIEW
Based on the previous research work, a comparison of strength properties of fibre

reinforced concrete is made with respect to conventional concrete and the influence of
shape and length of fibres on strength are also studied. Tests are conducted using
processed coconut fibres of length 5cm and raw fibre meshes of size 5cm x 5cm after
coating with coconut oil at varying fibre contents of 4%, 5%, 6%. A similar quantity
of raw untreated fibre is also used to compare the influence of shape and length of
fibres.
3.2 COLLECTION OF RAW MATERIALS
The materials used in this study are:
Portland cement (PPC) : Shankar cements

M-sand : POABS M sand
Coconut fibre : Raw fibre - Procured from coir mattress
manufacturing unit near Changanacherry, where
the material is available as waste
Processed fibre - Collected from rope
manufacturing unit in Vazhicherry, Cherthala
Water : Collected from local fresh water sources
Coarse aggregate : Aggregates passing through 20mm IS sieve
Admixture : BASF Rheobuild-918, Ernakulam
3.3 MATERIAL TESTS
3.3.1 TESTS ON CEMENT
Cement is an important constituent in concrete. The process of manufacture of cement

consist of grinding the raw materials mixing them intimately in certain proportions
and burning them in kiln at a temperature 13000C to 15000C. To determine the
various properties of cement different tests are done. The tests done are :

1. Standard Consistency
2. Initial Setting Time
3. Final Setting Time
4. Fineness of Cement
5. Density of Cement
6. Soundness of Cement
3.3.1.1 Standard Consistency
The standard consistency of a cement paste is defined as that consistency which will
permit the Vicat plunger of 10 mm diameter and 50 mm length to penetrate to a point
5 to 7 mm from the bottom of the Vicat mould Figure 3.1. The experiment was done
as per IS 4031-Part IV.
Figure 3.1 : Apparatus for Standard Consistency
3.3.1.2 Initial Setting Time
Initial setting time is regarded as the time elapsed between the moment that the water
is added to the cement to the time that the paste starts losing its plasticity. Experiment
was done as per IS -269:1989, clause 6.3.

3.3.1.3 Final setting time
Final setting time is the time elapsed between the moment that the water is added to
the cement and when the paste has completely lost its plasticity. Experiment was done
as per IS -269:1989, clause 6.3.
3.3.1.4 Fineness of Cement
Fineness is a measure of total surface area of cement. For finer cements surface area
will be more. Fineness influences the rate of hydration, rate of strength development,
shrinkage and rate of evolution of heat. Experiment was done as per IS 4031-Part I-
1996.
3.3.1.5 Density of Cement
Le Chatelier’s flask is used to determine density of cement as shown in Figure 3.2.

Kerosene which does not react with cement is used. Experiment is done in Le
Chatelier’sflask.
Figure 3.2 : Le Chatelier’s Flask
3.3.1.6 Soundness of Cement
The testing of soundness of cement is to ensure that the cement does not show any
applicable subsequent expansion. Unsoundness in cement is due to excess of lime,
magnesia or excessive proportion of sulphates. Experiment is done by Le Chatelier
method. And the value of soundness is 1mm.

3.3.2 Tests on Coarse Aggregate
Aggregates are important constituents in concrete. They give body to the concrete,
reduce shrinkage and effect economy. The aggregates occupy 70-80 percent of the
volume of concrete; their impact on various characteristics and properties of concrete
is considerable. To determine the various properties of aggregates different tests are
done.
1. Bulk density of coarse aggregates

2. Specific gravity of coarse aggregates
3. Sieve analysis of coarse aggregates
3.3.2.1 Bulk Density of Coarse Aggregates
The bulk density is the weight of material in a given volume and it is measured in
kilograms per litre. The bulk density of an aggregate is affected by several factors,
including the amount of moisture present and the amount of effort introduced in
filling the measure. Bulk density shows how densely the aggregate is packed, when
filled in a standard manner. It depends on the particle size distribution and shape of
the particle. The experiment was carried out as per the procedure in IS 383.
3.3.2.2 Specific Gravity of Coarse Aggregate
Specific gravity of an aggregate is considered to be a measure of strength or quality of

the material. Stones having low specific gravity are weaker than those with higher
specific gravity values. It is determined using a wire basket apparatus Figure.3.3 The
experiment is carried out as per IS 383.

Figure 3.3 : Apparatus for specific gravity of coarse aggregate
3.3.2.3 Grain Size Distribution of coarse aggregate
Particle size distribution in a sample of aggregate is done by sieve analysis using a

sieve shaker Fig 4.4. It is the operation of dividing a sample of aggregate into various
fractions, each consisting of particles of same size. Experiment was done as per IS
2386-Part I-1963,IS:383-1970 and the gradation curve was plotted.
Figure 3.4 : Sieve shaker

3.3.3 Tests on fine aggregate
1. Bulk density of fine aggregate
2. Specific gravity of fine aggregate
3. Sieve analysis of fine aggregate
3.3.3.1 Bulk density of fine aggregate
The bulk density is the weight of material in a given volume and it is measured in
kilograms per litre. The bulk density of an aggregate is affected by several factors,
including the amount of moisture present and the amount of effort introduced in
filling the measure. Bulk density shows how densely the aggregate is packed, when
filled in a standard manner. It depends on the particle size distribution and shape of
the particle. The experiment was carried out as per the procedure in IS 383
3.3.3.2 Specific Gravity of fine aggregate
Specific gravity of an aggregate is considered to be a measure of strength or quality of

the material. Specific gravity is defined as the ratio of the weight of the fine aggregate
to that of an equal volume of distilled water at that temperature and both the weights
being taken in air. It is done using a pycnonmeter Fig 3.5
Figure 3.5 : Apparatus for specific gravity

3.3.3.3 Sieve Analysis of Fine Aggregate
Particle size distribution in a sample of aggregate is done by sieve analysis using a

sieve shaker Fig 4.7. It is the operation of dividing a sample of aggregate into various
fractions, each consisting of particles of same size. The standard sieves for sieve
analysis of fine aggregates are 4.75mm, 2.36mm, 1.18mm, 600µ, 300µ, 150µ.
Experiment was done as per IS 2386-Part I-1963,IS:383-1970 and the gradation curve
was plotted.
Figure 3.6 : Sieve shaker
3.4 MIX DESIGN
Mix design is defined as the process of selecting suitable ingredients of concrete and
determining their relative proportions with the object of producing concrete of certain
minimum strength and durability as economically as possible.
A Mix design was conducted as per IS 10262-1982 to arrive at M 20 mix concrete.
3.5 MIXING OF CONCRETE
The coarse aggregate and fine aggregate were weighed and the concrete mixture was
prepared by hand mixing on a water tight platform. On the water tight platform
cement and fine aggregates are mixed thoroughly until a uniform colour is obtained,

to this mixture coarse aggregate was added and mixed thoroughly. Then water is
added carefully making sure no water is lost during mixing. While adding water care
should be taken to add it in stages so as to prevent bleeding which may affect the
strength formation of concrete rising of water required for hydration to the surface.
Clean and oiled mould for each category was then placed on the vibrating table
respectively and filled in three layers. Vibrations were stopped as soon as the cement
slurry appeared on the top surface of the mould
3.6 CASTING AND CURING
These specimens were allowed to remain in the steel mould for the first 24 hours at
ambient condition. After that these were demoulded with care so that no edges were
broken and were placed in the tank at the ambient temperature for curing. After
demoulding the specimen by loosening the screws of the steel mould, the cubes were
placed in the water for 7 days and 28 days.
3.6.1 CASTING OF RAW AND PROCESSED COIR FIBRE

REINFORCED CONCRETE
The calculated amount of cement and fine aggregate are mixed together until a
uniform mix is obtained. Fibres at varying amounts of 4%, 5% and 6% to that of
weight of cement are taken. Coir fibre strands are cut into a length of 5cm washed and
while the raw fibres are cut into square meshes of 5cm x 5 cm, coated with coconut
oil and dried in sunlight for 24 hours
It is then added to the mix until a uniform colour is obtained. Coarse aggregates are
then added to the same and mixed, followed by addition of water. Care should be
taken to add water slowly in stages so as to prevent bleeding which may affect the
strength formation of concrete. Admixture is added towards the end of mixing
procedure so as to avail sufficient time for mixing before the concrete hardens. It is
placed in the moulds of standard dimensions, compacted and finished
3.7 TESTING OF SPECIMEN
The remoulded specimens after being cured for sufficient time period are taken out
and dried in sunlight and tested under standard testing apparatus.

COLLECTION OF MATERIALS
TESTING OF MATERIALS
MIX DESIGN
MIXING AT SPECIFIED PROPORTION
MOULDING
REMOULDING AFTER 24 HOURS
CURING FOR 7 DAYS AND 28 DAYS
TESTING OF SPECIMEN
RESULT ANALYSIS & CONCLUSION
Figure 3.7 : Schematic representation of methodology
The next chapter deals with the study of various materials used and the material tests.

4. STUDY ON MATERIALS USED
4.1 OVERVIEW
Concrete is a freshly mixed material which can be moulded in to any shape. Concrete
is a site made material unlike other material of construction such as can vary to a
very great extent in its quality, properties and performance owing to the use of natural
material except cement. The properties of materials are important to make concrete
workable and durable.
The materials used in this study are:
Cement : PPC
Fine aggregate : M-sand
Coarse aggregate : Aggregates passing through 20mm is sieve
Coconut fibre : Washed fibres of length 5cm
Water : Potable water
Admixture : Rheobuild 918
4.2 CEMENT
IS 1489 1991 Part I defines PPC as “An intimately interground mixture of Portland
clinker and pozzolana with the possible addition of gypsum (natural or chemical) or
an intimate and uniform blending of Portland cement and fine pozzolana”. Portland-
pozzolana cement can be produced either by grinding together Portland cement
clinker and pozzolana with addition of gypsum or calcium sulphate, or by intimately
and uniformly blending Portland cement and fine pozzolana. The pozzolanic materials
generally used for manufacture of PPC are calcined clay or fly ash. Portland-
pozzolana cement produces less heat of hydration and offers greater resistance to the
attack of aggressive waters than normal Portland cement. Moreover, it reduces the
leaching of calcium hydroxide liberated during the setting and hydration of cement.

4.3 FINE AGGREGATE
Aggregates are the important constituents in concrete. They give body to the concrete,
reduce shrinkage and effect economy. They occupy about 70-80 percent of the
volume of the concrete. Aggregates shall consist of naturally occurring (crushed or
uncrushed) stones, gravel and sand or combination thereof. They shall be hard, strong,
durable, clear and free from veins and adherent coating; and free from injurious
amounts of disintegrated pieces, alkali, vegetable matter and other deleterious
substances. As far as possible, flaky and elongated pieces should be avoided.
Aggregates can be mainly classified into fine aggregates and coarse aggregates.
IS 383- 1970 defines fine aggregates as “Aggregate most of which passes 4.75mm IS
sieve and contains only so much coarser material as permitted.” It may be:
i. Natural sand: Fine aggregate resulting from the natural disintegration of rock
and which has been deposited by streams or glacial agencies.
ii. Crushed stone sand: Fine aggregate produced by crushing hard stone.
iii. Crushed gravel sand: line aggregate produced by crushing natural gravel.
In this research work we use Crushed stone sand or M sandFigure4.1
Figure 4.1 : M sand
There are four grading zones for fine aggregates such as grading zone I, II, III, and
IV. It is recommended that fine aggregate conforming to Grading Zone IV should not
be used in reinforced concrete unless tests have been made to ascertain the suitability
of proposed mix proportions.

4.4 COARSE AGGREGATE
IS 383-1970 defines coarse aggregates as Aggregates most of which is retained on

4.75 mm IS Sieve and containing only so much finer material as is permitted for the
various types described in this standardFigure4.2
Coarse aggregates may be described as:
1. Uncrushed gravel or stone which results from natural disintegration of rock,
2. Crushed gravel or stone when it results from crushing of gravel or hard stone,
and
3. Partially crushed gravel or stone when it is a product of the blending of
uncrushed gravel stone and crushed gravel or stone.
Figure 4.2 : Coarse aggregate
4.5 WATER
According to IS 456 : 2000, water used for mixing and curing shall be clean and free
from injurious amounts of oils, acids, alkalis, salts, sugar, organic materials or other
substances that may be deleterious to concrete or steel. Potable water is generally
considered satisfactory for mixing concrete. The pH value of water shall be not less
than 6
4.6 COCONUT FIBRE
Coconut fibre both raw and processed are used in this research.

4.6.1 RAW FIBRE
It is the waste material obtained from mattress manufacturing and possess high degree
of tensile strength of 21.5 MPa Figure 4.3. They are properly washed before use. This
will remove dust and other residual particles left on the fibre so as to augment the
surface of contact between the fibre and mix resulting in better binding between the
reinforcement and concrete and ultimately higher strength. The fibres are then cut into
square meshes of size 5cm x 5cm
Figure 4.3 : Raw coconut fibre obtained from mattress waste
4.6.2 PROCESSED FIBRES
They are properly washed and drawn into strands before use. Treatment of fibres
removes dust and other residual particles left on the fibre so as to augment the surface
of contact between the fibre and mix resulting in better binding between the
reinforcement and concrete and ultimately higher strength. The fibre is washed in tap
water for 30 minutes so as to loosen the fibres and to remove the coir dust. Fibres are
then washed and soaked again for 30 minutes. This process is to be repeated three
times The softened fibres are straightened manually and combed with a steel comb.
Figure 4.4.To accelerate the drying process, the wet long fibres will be then put in
oven at 30°C for 10–12 in which most of the moisture will be removed. The fibres are

then completely dried in the open air, combed again and finally cut into the required
length of 5cm and soaked in oil for 15-20 min and dried in sun for 24 hours.
Figure 4.4 : Processed fibre
4.7 TESTS ON MATERIALS– RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
4.7.1 TESTS ON CEMENT
The various tests done on cement are :
1. Standard Consistency
2. Initial Setting Time
3. Final Setting Time
4. Fineness of Cement
5. Density of Cement
6. Soundness of Cement

4.7.1.1 Standard Consistency
The experiment was done as per IS 4031-Part IV and the obtained value of standard
consistency is 34 %.
4.7.1.2 Initial Setting Time
Experiment was done as per IS -269:1989, clause 6.3 and the obtained value of initial
setting time is 70 min. According to IS code initial setting time of cement shall not be
less than 30 minutes.
4.7.1.3 Final setting time
Experiment was done as per IS -269:1989, clause 6.3 and the obtained value of final
setting time is 300 min. According to IS code initial setting time of cement should not
exceed 10 hours.
4.7.1.4 Fineness of Cement
Experiment was done as per IS 4031-Part I-1996 and the obtained value of fineness of
cement is 7%.According to IS code the weight of residue should not exceed 10% for
ordinary cement.
4.7.1.5 Density of Cement
Experiment was done in Le Chatelier’s flask and the obtained value of density of
cement is 3.09 g/ml. According to IS 4031-Part II-1988 density of cement is around
3.15 g/ml.
4.7.1.6 Soundness of Cement
Experiment was done by Le Chatelier method and the obtained value of soundness of
cement is 1mm.According to IS 269:1989-Clause 6.2, the expansion of cement must
not exceed 10 mm for ordinary rapid hardening and low heating portland cement.
4.7.2 TESTS ON COARSE AGGREGATE
The various tests done on aggregate are:

1. Bulk density of coarse aggregates

2. Specific gravity of coarse aggregates
3. Sieve analysis of coarse aggregates
4.7.2.1 Bulk Density of Coarse Aggregates
The experiment was carried out as per IS code 2386 part-III-1963 and IS 383.
Diameter of the metal measure, d=25cm
Height of the metal measure, h=21.5cm
Volume of the metal measure, V= 10.55x103cm3
Weight of the empty metal measure, W =5.5kg
Weight of compacted aggregate + metal measure, W1=19.95 kg
Bulk density of compacted coarse aggregate = 1.37 kg/lit
Weight of loosely packed aggregate + metal measure, W2= 19.1kg
Bulk density of loosely packed aggregate = 1.29 kg/lit
INFERENCE
As per IS code 2386-part III -1963, the obtained value of bulk density of
aggregates lies within the range of 1.2-1.8kg/l.
4.7.2.2 Specific Gravity of Coarse Aggregate
Weight of saturated aggregate suspended in water with the wire

basket,A1=2800g
Weight of empty wire basket suspended in water,A2=1550g
Weight of saturated aggregate in water=A1-A2=2800-1550=1250g
Weight of saturated surface dry aggregate in air,B=1992g
Weight of oven dried aggregate in air,C=1985g

Specific gravity= 2.72
Apparent specific gravity=2.75
Water absorption = 0.04685
INFERENCE
As per IS code 2386-part III -1963, Average value of specific gravity should
lies between 2.6-2.8
4.7.2.3 Grain Size Distribution of coarse aggregate
Experiment was done as per IS 2386-Part I-1963,IS:383-1970 and the results are
tabulated in Table 4.1. The gradation curve is shown in Figure 4.5.
Weight of sample taken, W=5000g
Table 4.1: Results of sieve analysis conducted on Sample
Is sieve size in Weight retained Percentage Cumulative % % finer

mm on each sieve(g) retained on each retained on each
sieve sieve
80 0 0 0 100
40 0 0 0 100
20 42 0.84 0.84 99.16
10 4705 94.1 94.94 5.06
4.75 16 0.32 95.26 4.74

120
99.16 100
100 100
80
% Finer
60
% finer
40
20
4.74
5.06
0
1 10 100
IS Sieve Size (mm) in log scale
Figure 4.5 : Gradation curve for Coarse Aggregate
INFERENCE
Value of fineness modulus is 6.9. As per IS 2386 part-1, 1963 fineness modulus of
coarse aggregate is between 6.5 and 8. Obtained value lies within the range. hence it
can be used for making satisfactory concrete.
4.7.3 TESTS ON FINE AGGREGATE

1. Bulk density of fine aggregate
2. Specific gravity of fine aggregate
3. Sieve analysis of fine aggregate
4.7.3.1 Bulk density of fine aggregate
Diameter of the metal measure, d=25cm
Height of the metal measure, h=21.5cm
Volume of the metal measure, V= 10.55x103cm3

Weight of the empty metal measure, W =5.5 kg
Weight of compacted fine aggregate + metal measure, W1= 24.3kg
Bulk density of compacted coarse aggregate = 1.78 kg/lit
Weight of loosely packed aggregate + metal measure, W2= 23.5 kg
Bulk density of loosely packed aggregate = 1.74 kg/lit
INFERENCE
As per IS code 2386-part III -1963, the value of bulk density of aggregates lies within
the range of 1.2-1.8kg/l. The obtained value if bulk density is 1.78 kg/l which is
within this range and hence can provide sufficient rigidity to the concrete mix
4.7.3.2 Specific Gravity of fine aggregate
Weight of empty pycnometer =636g
Weight of pycnometer + Msand A =1136g
Weight of pycnometer + aggregate+ water B =1718g
Weight of pycnometer + water C=1395g
Specific gravity=2.706
INFERENCE
As per IS code 2386-Part III -1963 the specific gravity of fine aggregate ranges from
2.65 to 2.68. The obtained value is 2.706 is within the range.

4.7.3.3 Sieve Analysis of Fine Aggregate
Experiment was done as per IS 2386-Part I-1963,IS:383-1970 and the results are
tabulated in Table 4.2 and table 4.3 respectively. The gradation curve is shown in Fig
4.6 and Fig 4.7
Sample 1
Weight of sample taken, W = 500g
Table 4.2 : Results of sieve analysis conducted on Sample 1
Percentage Cumulative %
Weight retained
I.S sieve size retained on retained on % finer
on each sieve(g)
each sieve each sieve
4.75 mm 0.680 0.136 0.136 99.864
2.36 mm 0.9 0.18 0.136 99.684
1.18 mm 0.84 0.168 0.484 99.516
600 micron 2.7 0.54 1.024 98.976
300 micron 130 26 27.024 72.976
150 micron 300 60 87.024 12.976
Pan 64.88 12.98 100 0
Fineness modulus = ( / 100) = (116.008/100) = 1.16

120
98.976 99.516 99.684 99.864
100
80
% Finer 72.976
60
40
20
12.976
0
0.1 1 10
Figure 4.6 : Gradation Curve for Sample 1
Sample 2
Weight of sample taken, W = 1000g
Table 4.3 : Results of sieve analysis conducted on Sample 2
Weight Percentage Cumulative %

retained on retained on retained on % finer
I.S sieve size
each sieve(g) each sieve each sieve
4.75 mm 23 2.3 2.3 97.7
2.36 mm 205 20.54 22.84 77.16
1.18 mm 185 18.54 41.38 58.62
600 micron 145 14.53 55.91 44.09
300 micron 161 16.13 72.04 27.96
150 micron 149 14.93 86.97 13.03
Pan 130 13.03 100 0

Fineness modulus = ( / 100) = (281.44/100) = 2.814
100 97.7
80
% finer (%) 77.16
60 58.62
44.09
40
27.96
20
13.03
0
0.1 1 10
Figure 4.7 : Gradation Curve for Sample 2
INFERENCE
Aggregates can be grouped in to different zones according to its gradation curve.

Zone 1, Zone 2, Zone 3 and Zone 4 are different zones. It is recommended that fine
aggregates conforming to Grading zone 4 should not be used in reinforced concrete.
Grading of fine aggregates has much greater effect on workability of concrete.
According to IS: 2386-Part I-1963, IS: 383-1970, the graph of Sample 2. Hence
Sample 2 was selected for the experimental purpose. Properties of Sample 2 are
shown in Table 4.3.
4.8 SUMMARY OF MATERIAL PROPERTIES
The physical property of cement, fine aggregate, coarse aggregate and the
compressive strength test results of the concrete cube specimens are detailed below.
4.8.1 PROPERTIES OF CEMENT
Properties of Cement is shown in Table 4.4.

Table 4.4 : Properties of Cement
Properties Value Obtained Limits as per IS 4031
Initial Setting Time 70 minutes >30
Soundness (expansion) 1mm <10mm
Density 3.09 g/cc 3.15
Fineness 7% <10%
INFERENCE
The values obtained for properties of cement are within the range specified by IS
code. So the given cement is suitable for construction.
4.8.2 PROPERTIES OF FINE AGGREGATES
Sieve analysis of fine aggregate is done using standard set of IS sieves. The results of
tests conducted on Sample are tabulated in Table 4.5
Table 4.5 : Properties of Fine Aggregate
Specific Gravity 2.706 2.6-2.8
Bulk Density 1.78g/cc 1.2-1.8 g/cc
2.2-2.6 - fine sand

Fineness Modulus 2.814 2.6-2.9 – medium sand
2.9-3.2 – coarse sand
INFERENCE
The properties obtained for fine aggregates are within the range given by IS code. So
the fine aggregates are good for concreting.

4.8.3 PROPERTIES OF COARSE AGGREGATES
The properties of coarse aggregate is shown in Table 4.6
Table 4.6 : Properties of Coarse Aggregate
Bulk Density 1.37g/cc 1.2 -1.8 g/cc
Specific Gravity 2.72 2.6-2.8
INFERENCE
The properties of coarse aggregates are within the range given by IS code. So the
aggregates are good for concreting.
The next chapter titled casting and testing deals with the casting, curing and tests on
concrete specimen.

5. CASTING AND TESTING OF CONCRETE

SPECIMEN
5.1 TESTS ON FRESH CONCRETE
5.1.1 SLUMP TEST
Slump test is the most commonly used method of measuring consistency of concrete.
It is used conveniently as a control test and gives an indication of the uniformity of
concrete. Additional information on workability and quality of concrete can be
obtained by observing the manner in which concrete slumps. The apparatus for
conducting the slump test essentially consists of a metallic mould in the form of
frustum of a cone having the internal dimensions of bottom diameter 20 cm, top
diameter 10 cm and a height of 30 cm as shown in Figure 5.1.
Figure 5.1 : Slump Testing Apparatus
5.2 TESTS ON HARDENED CONCRETE
5.2.1 COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH TEST
Compressive strength is the capacity of a material or structure to withstand axial loads

tending to reduce the size. It is measured using the Universal Testing machine.
Concrete can be made to have high compressive strength, e.g. many concrete
structures have compressive strengths in excess of 50 MPa. Here the compressive

strength of concrete cubes for the plain concrete and fibre reinforced concrete are
found out using Compression testing machine. Three cubes were cast for each
percentage of fibres and the average of the two compressive strength values was
taken. A Compression testing machine is shown in Figure 5.2.
Figure 5.2 : Compression Testing Machine
5.2.2 SPLIT TENSILESTRENGTH TEST
Tensile strength is the capacity of a material or structure to withstand tension. It is

measured on concrete cylinders of standard dimensions using a Universal Testing
machine. Both conventional and fibre reinforced specimens were tested at varying
percentages of fibre and the average value was obtained
5.2.3 FLEXURALSTRENGTHTEST
Flexural strength of concrete is considered as an index of tensile strength of concrete.

Tensile stresses are likely to develop in concrete due to drying shrinkage , rusting of
steel reinforcement, temperature gradients and many other reasons. Beam tests are
conducted to determine flexural strength of concrete Figure 5.3. In flexural tests on
beam theoretical maximum tensile strength is obtained at bottom of beam and is
called modulus of rupture, which depends on dimension of beam and position of
loading

Figure 5.3 : Flexure Testing Machine
5.3 EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE
5.3.1 MIX DESIGN
Mix design is defined as the process of selecting suitable ingredients of concrete and
determining their relative proportions with the object of producing concrete of certain
minimum strength and durability as economically as possible. The mix design must
consider the environment that the concrete will be in exposure to sea water, trucks,
cars, forklifts, foot traffic or extremes of hot and cold. A Mix design was conducted as
per IS 10262-1982 to arrive at M 20 mix concrete.
5.3.1.1 STIPULATIONS FOR PROPORTIONING
Grade designation : M20
Type of cement : PPC

Max nominal size of aggregate : 20mm
Min cement content : 300 kg/m3
Max water cement ratio : 0.55
Workability : 100mm(slump)
Exposure condition : Mild(for reinforced concrete)
Degree of supervision : Good
Type of aggregate : Crushed angular aggregate
Max cement content : 450 kg/m3
Chemical admixture type : Superplasticizer
5.3.1.2 TEST DATA FOR MATERIALS
Cement used : PPC
Standard consistency of cement : 34%
Initial setting time of cement :70 min
Final setting time of cement : 300 min
Specific gravity of cement : 3.09 g/cc
Chemical admixture : Superplasticizer conforming to IS 9103
Specific gravity of
1) Coarse aggregate : 2.72
2) Fine agggregate : 2.706
Water absorption of
1) Coarse aggregate : 0.5%
2) Fine aggregate : 1%
Free surface moisture of
a) Coarse aggregate : Nil
b) Fine aggregate : Nil

Bulk density of
a) Coarse aggregate : 1.37 kg/l
b) Fine aggregate : 1.78 kg/l
Sieve analysis
a) Coarse aggregate : Fineness modulus = 6.91
b) Fine aggregate : Fineness modulus = 2.814 and Conforming to

grading
zone 2, Table 4 of IS 383
1) TARGET STRENGTH FOR MIX PROPORTIONING
f’ck = fck+ 1.65 s
where f’ck= target average compressive strength at 28 days
fck= characteristic compressive strength at 28 days = 20 N/mm2
s = standard deviation = 4 N/mm2 (from Table 1, IS 10262 : 2009)
t = statistical value dependent on expected results
According to IS:456-2000 and IS 1343-1980, the characteristic strength is

defined as that value below which not more than 5 percent results are expected
to fall, in which case the above equation reduces to
Therefore, target strength = 20 + 1.65 * 4 = 26.6 N/mm2
2)SELECTION OF WATER CEMENT RATIO
Various parameters like type of cement, aggregate, maximum size of aggregate,

surface texture of aggregate etc are influencing the strength of concrete, when
water cement ratio remain constant, hence it is desirable to establish a relation
between concrete strength and free water cement ratio with materials and
condition to be used actually at site.
From Table 5 of IS 456, maximum water cement ratio for M20mix = 0.55
From the trial mixes, water cement ratio is fixed as 0.50
0.50 <0.55 , hence OK

3) SELECTION OF AIR CONTENT
Air content for 20 mm aggregate = 2% of volume of concrete from Table 4.4

(IS 10262-1982)
Table 5.1 : Approximate Entrapped Air Content
Entrapped Air, as
Maximum Size of
Percentage of Volume of
Aggregate(mm)
Concrete
10 3
20 2
40 1
4)SELECTION OF WATER CONTENT
The water content and percentage of sand in total aggregate by absolute volume
are determined from Table 2 of IS 10262 : 2009
Maximum water content
(for 20 mm aggregate) = 186 litre (for 25 to 50 mm

slump range)
Estimated water content for 100mm slump = 186 + (6/100*186) = 197 litres
5) CALCULATION OF CEMENT CONTENT
The cement content per unit volume of concrete may be calculated from free
water cement ratio and the quantity of water per unit volume of concrete.
Water cement ratio = 0.5
Cement content = 197/0.5 =394 kg/m3

From Table 5 of IS 456, minimum cement content for severe exposure condition
= 320kg/m3
394 kg/m3> 320 kg/m3, hence OK
6) PROPORTION OF VOLUME OF COARSE AGGREGATE AND FINE AGGREGATE
From Table 3 of IS 10262 : 2009, volume of coarse aggregate corresponding to

20 mm size aggregate and fine aggregate (zone 2) for water cement ratio of 0.50
= 0.62
Therefore proportion of volume of fine aggregate = 1 – 0.62 = 0.38
5.3.1.3 MIX CALCULATIONS
The mix calculation per unit volume of concrete shall be as follows :
a. Volume of concrete = 1 m3
b. Volume of cement = (mass of cement / (specific gravity of cement
* 1000))
= (350 / (3.09 * 1000)) = 0.1275 m3
c. Volume of water = (mass of water / (specific gravity of water *
1000))
= (197 / (1 * 1000)) = 0.197 m3
d. Volume of chemical
admixture = NIL
e. Volume of all in aggregate = (a - (b + c + d)) = 1 – (0.1275 + 0.197 + 0) =
0.675 m3
f. Mass of coarse aggregate = e * volume of coarse aggregate * specific
gravity of
coarse aggregate * 1000
= 0.675 * 0.62 *2.72 * 1000 = 1138 kg
g. Mass of fine aggregate = e * volume of fine aggregate * specific gravity
Of fine aggregate * 1000=0.675 * 0.38 * 2.706
* 1000= 687 kg

5.3.1.4 MIX PROPORTION
Cement = 394kg/m3
Water = 197 kg/m3
Coarse aggregate = 1138 kg/m3
Fine aggregate = 687 kg/m3
Water cement ratio = 0.5
Table 5.2 : Quantity of materials required for each mix
Materials Mix 1 Mix 2 Mix 3 Mix 4 Mix 5 Mix 6 Mix 7
(Plain (4% (5% fibre) (6% (4% (5% (6%

Concr fibre) fibre) fibre) fibre) fibre)
ete) Processed
processed processed Raw Raw Raw
Cement 9.5 9.5 9.5 9.5 9.5 9.5 9.5

(Kg)
Water (Kg) 4.75 4.75 4.75 4.75 4.75 4.75 4.75
Coarse 27 27 27 27 27 27 27
Aggregate
(Kg)
Fine 16.5 16.5 16.5 16.5 16.5 16.5 16.5

Aggregate
(Kg)
Fibre (Kg) - 0.38 0.475 0.57 0.38 0.475 0.57
Super 0.2% 0.4% 0.6% 0.2% 0.4% 0.6%

Plasticizer

5.3.2 CASTING PROCEDURE
5.3.2.1 Casting of Concrete Cubes
Concrete is mixed either by hand Fig 5.4. In this casting process is used. Concrete is a
mixture of Cement, Water, Coarse and Fine Aggregates and Admixtures. The
proportion of each material in the mixture affects the properties of the final hardened
concrete. These proportions are best measured by weight. Measurement by volume is
not as accurate, but is suitable for minor projects. The dry ingredients are mixed and
water is added slowly until the concrete is workable. This mixture may need to be
modified depending on the aggregate used to provide a concrete of the right
workability. The mix should not be too stiff or too sloppy. It is difficult to form good
test specimens if it is too stiff. If it is too sloppy, water may separate (bleed) from the
mixture.
Figure 5.4 : Mixing of concrete
For casting, all the moulds were cleaned and oiled properly. There were securely
tightened to correct dimension before casting. Care was taken that there is no gaps
left, where there is any possibility of leakage of slurry. Careful procedure was adopted
in the batching, mixing and casting operation. The coarse aggregate and fine
aggregate were weighed first. The concrete mixture was prepared by hand mixing on

a water tight platform. On the water tight platform cement and fine aggregates are
mixed thoroughly until a uniform colour is obtained, to this mixture coarse aggregate
was added and mixed thoroughly. Then water is added carefully making sure no water
is lost during mixing. While adding water care should be taken to add it in stages so as
to prevent bleeding which may affect the strength formation of concrete rising of
water required for hydration to the surface. Clean and oiled mould for each category
was then placed on the vibrating table respectively and filled in three layers.
Vibrations were stopped as soon as the cement slurry appeared on the top surface of
the mould. Fig 5.5 shows cube specimen placed on table vibrator.
Figure 5.5 : Cubes Specimen Placed on Table Vibrator
These specimens were allowed to remain in the steel mould for the first 24 hours at
ambient condition. After that these were demoulded with care so that no edges were
broken and were placed in the tank at the ambient temperature for curing. After
demoulding the specimen by loosening the screws of the steel mould, the cubes were
placed in the water for 7 days and 28 days.
Figure 5.6 : Finishing of moulds

5.3.2.2 Casting of Processed Coir Fibre Reinforced Concrete
The calculated amount of cement and fine aggregate are mixed together till a uniform
mix is obtained.. The amounts of fibre adopted are 4%, 5% and 6% of cement. Coir
fibre strands are cut into a length of 5cm washed, oil coated with coconut oil and
dried in sunlight for 24 hours Fig 5.7.
Figure 5.7 : Coconut Fibre Strands
It is then added to the mix until a uniform colour is obtained. Coarse aggregates are
then added to the same and mixed followed by addition of water. Care should be
taken to add water slowly in stages so as to prevent bleeding which may affect the
strength formation of concrete rising of water required for hydration to the surface.
Admixture is added towards the last stage of addition of water so as to avail sufficient
time for mixing before the concrete hardens. It is placed in the mould, compacted and
finished is shown in Fig. 5.8. 6 cubes each of the same are prepared and cured. The
compressive strength for 7day and 28 day is determined.

Figure 5.8 : Finished fibre reinforced concrete cubes
5.3.2.3 Casting of Raw Coir Fibre Reinforced Concrete
The calculated amount of cement and fine aggregate are mixed together till a uniform
mix is obtained. The amounts of fibre adopted are 4%, 5% and 6% of cement. Raw
and non uniform coir fibres are cut into square chips of of 5cm x 5cm. They are then
washed, oil coated with coconut oil and dried in sunlight for 24 hours and added to
the mix until a uniform colour is obtained. Coarse aggregates are then added to the
same and mixed followed by addition of water. Care should be taken to add water
slowly in stages so as to prevent bleeding which may affect the strength formation of
concrete rising of water required for hydration to the surface. Admixture is added
towards the last stage of addition of water so as to avail sufficient time for mixing
before the concrete hardens It is placed in the mould and compacted. 6 cubes each of
the same are prepared and cured. The compressive strength for 7day and 28 day is
determined.

5.4 TEST RESULTS AND ANALYSIS
5.4.1 SLUMP TEST
Table 5.3 : Slump test on Trial Mixes
w/c ratio Slump Remarks

Trial
Value(mm)
0.4 30 Target Slump not achieved
Trial 1
0.45 50 Target Slump not achieved
Trial 2
0.5 120 Desired Slump value is obtained
Trial 3
(Slump >100mm )
INFERENCE
From the table it is observed that the desired slump value is obtained for trial 3 at
water cement ratio = 0.5. Hence we fix it as the design ratio. Trial 1 and 2 yielded
very low slump values which may be either due to inadequate paste available for
binding the mix or due to improper mixing procedure
5.4.2 COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH
5.4.2.1 COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF CONVENTIONAL CONCRETE

CUBES
The compressive strength of ordinary concrete with different water cement ratio was
tested. The results are as shown in Table 5.4.

Table 5.4 : Compressive Strength of Conventional Concrete Cubes
28 day
Slump Value 7day strength strength
Specimen w/c ratio 2
(mm) (N/mm ) (N/mm2)
24.88
1 14
25.1
2 0.5 120 14.4
25.1
3 14.2
25.03
Average 14.2
INFERENCE
For the table the average of value from the 3 observations is 25 N/mm2, is taken as
compressive strength of plain concrete cube
5.4.2.2 COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF CFRC (PROCESSED)
Coconut fibre reinforced concrete was added to concrete at varying proportions (4% ,
5%, 6% of that of weight of cement) at a water cement ratio of 0.5 The desired slump
value and compressive strength was obtained for conventional concrete at this ratio .
However, when fibre is added to the mix low workability was observed. Hence
superplasticizer was added at different proportions of cement to get a concrete mix of
suitable workability. The result of compressive strength of fibre reinforced concrete
and slump test results are shown in Table 5.5 and is shown graphically in Fig 5.9 and
Fig 5.10.

Table 5.5 : Compressive Strength of Processed CFRC cubes
Compressive
Slump strength(N/mm2)
Percentage of
w/c Amount of Value
Specimen coconut fibre
ratio superplasticizer
added 28
(mm) 7 day
Used day
0.2 %
1 4% 110
14.6 25.7
0.4 %
2 0.5 5% 105
16.3 28.3
0.8%
3 6% 105
15.02 26.2
29.5 28.3
Compressive Strength (N/mm2)
27.5
26.2
25.5
25.7
23.5
21.5
7 day
19.5
28 day
17.5 16.3
15.5
15.02
13.5 14.6
3% 4% 5% 6% 7%
% of fiber added
Figure 5.9 : Finished fibre reinforced concrete cubes

30
25.03

25 23.2
22.1 21.82
20
15
10
0
0% 4% 5% 6%
% of fibre added (%)
Figure 5.10 : graph showing variation of compressive strength at varying

percentages of fibre
INFERENCE
The value obtained for 5% addition of coconut fibre water cement ratio 0.5 yielded
highest results for compressive strength. However, the compressive strength
decreased on the increase in fibre addition. This may be due to the fact when fibres
are added initially the finer sized fine aggregates enter into the surface pores in the
fibre creating a better bonding between the fibre and mix, however further addition of
fibres causes formation of bulk fibre in the mix decreasing the bonding. Hence there
is an optimum value of fibre to cement ratio, beyond which the compressive strength
decreases. Hence 0.5 was taken as the optimum water cement ratio and optimum fibre
content was taken as 5%
5.4.2.3 COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF CFRC (RAW)
Coconut fibre reinforced concrete was cast at a water cement ratio of 0.5 at which
desired slump values and compressive strength were obtained for conventional
concrete. However, when fibre is added the mix showed very low workability. Hence

superplasticizer was added at different proportions of cement to get a concrete mix

with suitable workability. The result of compressive strength of fibre reinforced
concrete and slump test results are shown in Table 5.6 and is shown graphically in Fig
5.11 and Fig 5.12
Table 5.6 : Compressive Strength of Raw CFRC Cubes
Compressive
Slump strength(N/mm2)
Percentage
w/c Amount of Value
Specimen of coconut
ratio superplasticizer
fibre added (mm) 7 day 28 day
used
1 4% 0.6 % 108 13.7 23.2
2 0.5 5% 0.8 % 102 12.96 22.1
3 6% 1% 100 12.51 21.82
INFERENCE
From the table a decreasing trend in compressive strength is observed with a
maximum at 4% fibre addition. On further addition of fibres compressive strength
values way below that of conventional concrete is obtained. This is due to formation
of zone of transition, which creates a weak zone around the fibre making the entire
specimen weak. Moreover the thickness of the fibres can hinder better packing of the
constituents of concrete thus making it weak.

23.2
Compressive strength (N/mm2)

22.1
22.5
21.82
20.5
18.5
16.5 7 day
14.5 13.7 28 day

12.96
12.5 12.51
10.5
3% 4% 5% 6% 7%

30
25.03
25 23.2
22.1 21.82
20
15
7 day
28 day
10
0
0% 4% 5% 6%


INFERENCE
Also, the compressive strength value is still less than that of plain concrete .This can
also be due to the presence of dust and other impurities on the surface of fibres which
may interefere with proper bonding of mix and subsequent strength formation.
Another important factor is the influence of shape of fibres. Only properly combed
fibre strands can be used for reinforcing concrete as presence of bulk fibres can result
in improper compaction
5.4.3 SPLIT TENSILE STRENGTH TEST
Split tensile strength tests were conducted on standard cylinders of dimension 15cm
diameter and 30cm depth Fig 5.13 specimens each for plain concrete, coconut fibre
reinforced concrete (both raw and processed fibre) were cast at varying percentages of
fibre (4%, 5%, 6%). For each case 28day strength values were obtained by loading
under a compression testing machine. The result of Split tensile strength of plain and
processed fibre reinforced concrete and slump test results are shown in Table 5.7 and
Table 5.8 respectively and is shown graphically in Fig 5.14 and Fig 5.15
Figure 5.13 : Specimen loaded onto the testing apparatus

Table 5.7 : Split tensile strength for processed Plain Concrete cylinders
28 day strength
Slump Value
Specimen w/c ratio (N/mm2)
(mm)
3.39
1
3.46
2 0.5 120
3.46
3
3.44
Average
5.4.3.1 SPLIT TENSILE STRENGTH OF CFRC (PROCESSED)
Table 5.8 : Split tensile strength for processed CFRC cylinders
Slump
Percentage
w/c Amount of Value Split Tensile
Specimen of coconut
ratio superplasticizer strength(N/mm2)
fibre added (mm)
Used
1 4% 0.2 % 110 3.8
2 0.5 5% 0.4 % 105 4.57
3 6% 0.8% 105 4.14
Average = 4.17

Split tensile Strength (N/mm2)

4.57
4.5
4.14
4
3.8
3.5
0% 1% 2% 3% 4% 5% 6% 7%
Figure 5.14 : graph showing variation of split tensile strength at varying

percentages of fibre (processed)
5
Split tensile Strength
4.57
4.5
(N/mm2)
4.14
4
3.8
3.5
4% 5% 6%

INFERENCE
From the graph it is seen that when fibre content is increased there is an increase in
split tensile strength with a maximum at 5% of fibre. However when the fibre content
is increased beyond this value a downward slope of the graph is observed. This is due

to the fact that tensile failure occurs due to the dislocation of atoms and molecules
present in concrete. However when the fibre is added it acts as a binder holding them
together.
5.4.3.2 SPLIT TENSILE STRENGTH OF CFRC (RAW)
The results for Split tensile strength of raw fibre reinforced concrete and slump test
results are shown in Table 5.9 and is shown graphically in Fig 5.16 and Fig 5.17.
Table 5.9 : Split tensile strength for raw CFRC cylinders
Amount of Slump
Percentage of
w/c superplasticizer Value Split Tensile
ratio strength(N/mm2)
added used (mm)
1 4% 0.2 % 110 3.98
2 0.5 5% 0.4 % 105 4.86
3 6% 0.8% 105 4.15
Average 4.33
5
Split Tensile strength (N/mm2)
4.86
4.5
4.15
4
3.98
3.5
0% 2% 4% 6% 8%

percentages of fibre (raw)

Split Tensile strength (N/mm2)

4.86
3.98 4.15
4
0
4% 5% 6%

5.4.3.3 COMPARISON OF CRACKING PATTERN IN CONVENTIONAL AND

FRC CYLINDERS
Figure 5.18 : Cracking pattern of Conventional concrete and coconut fibre

reinforced concrete

Table 5.10 : Comparison of post peak load failure in raw and processed CFRC
Specimen Post Peak Load Strength (sec)
CFRC (processed fibres) 240
CFRC (raw fibres) 360
INFERENCE
Fig 5.18 shows the variation in cracking pattern of conventional and fibre reinforced
concrete.It is seen that in conventional concrete abrupt failure occurred which is
represented by cracking of cylinder into two halves at maximum load,however for
CFRCthere is a time lag before the specimen actually fails.Cracks were found to be
held together after the initial cracking occured and even after the test was continued
up to360 sec post the failure.This is due to post peak load strength making it suitable
for earth quake prone regions so that sufficent warning period is available before the
disintegration of structure.The post peak load strengths of both processed fibre and
raw fibre mesh reinforced concrete are shown in table 5.10
5.4.4 FLEXURAL STRENGTH TEST
Flexural strength tests were conducted on standard beams of dimension 15cm x 15cm
x 70cm Fig 5.19. 3 specimens each for plain concrete, coconut fibre reinforced
concrete were cast at varying percentages of fibre (4%,5%, 6%). For each case the
28day strength values were obtained by loading under a apparatus for flexural
strength. The result of Split tensile strength of plain and processed fibre reinforced
concrete and slump test results are shown in Table 5.11 and Table 5.12 respectively
and is shown graphically in Fig 5.20 and Fig 5.21.

Figure 5.19 : Specimen loaded onto the testing apparatus
Table 5.11 : Flexural strength for Plain Concrete Beams
28 day strength
Slump Value
Specimen w/c ratio (N/mm2)
(mm)
3.5
1
3.75
2 0.5 120
3.75
3
3.67
Average

5.4.4.1 FLEXURAL STRENGTH OF CFRC(PROCESSED)
Table 5.12 : Flexural strength for processed Coconut Fibre Reinforced Concrete
Beams
Slump
Percentage
w/c Amount of Value Flexural
Specimen of coconut
ratio superplasticizer strength(N/mm2)
fibre added (mm)
Used
1 4% 0.2 % 110 4.16
2 0.5 5% 0.4 % 105 4.83
3 6% 0.8% 105 4.6
Average 4.53
5
4.83
Flexural Strength (N/mm2)
4.5 4.6
Series1
4.16
4
3.5
0% 2% 4% 6% 8%
Figure 5.20 : graph showing variation of Flexural strength at varying


5
4.83
Flexural Strength (N/mm2)

4.6
4.5
4.16
Series1
4
3.5
4% 5% 6%

INFERENCE
flexural strength with a maximum at 5% of fibre. However when the fibre content is
increased beyond this value a downward slope of the graph is observed
5.4.4.2 FLEXURAL STRENGTH OF CFRC(RAW)
The results for Split tensile strength of raw fibre reinforced concrete and slump test
results are shown in Table 5.13 and is shown graphically in Fig 5.22 and Fig 5.23.The
cracking pattern of the beam is shown in Fig 5.24.

Table 5.13 : Flexural strength for raw Coconut Fibre Reinforced Concrete
Beams
Amount of Slump
Percentage of
w/c superplasticizer Value Flexural
ratio strength(N/mm2)
added used (mm)
1 4% 0.2 % 110 4.02
2 0.5 5% 0.4 % 105 4.73
3 6% 0.8% 105 4.4
Average 4.38
5
Flexural strength (N/mm2)
4.73
4.5
4.4
4
4.02
3.5
0% 1% 2% 3% 4% 5% 6% 7%


Flexural strength (N/mm2)

4.73
4.5 4.4
4.02
4
3.5
4% 5% 6%

INFERENCE
flexural strength with a maximum at 5% of fibre. However when the fibre content is
increased beyond this value a downward slope of the graph is observed. This must be
due to balling of fibres which can hamper the binding and strength formation in
concrete.
Figure 5.24 : Cracking pattern coconut fibre reinforced concrete beam

6. CONCLUSION
Coconut fibre is available in abundance at the test site, which makes it quite viable as
a reinforcement material in concrete. Further, it acts as a source of income for the
coconut producer who gets the benefits of the new demand generated by the
construction industry. In addition to this, it is an efficient method for the disposal of
coir mattress waste which will reduce the demand for additional waste disposal
infrastructure and decrease the load on existing landfills and incinerators. Coconut
fibres being natural in origin, is ecologically sustainable and can bring down the
global carbon footprint quite effectively.
The objectives of this work were:
1. To find out variation in compressive, tensile and flexural strengths of CFRC

using processed fibre strands and raw fibre meshes at varying fibre contents
and to compare it with that of conventional concrete
2. To determine the influence of shape of fibres on strength of concrete
The scope of this project was limited to rural residential constructions.
The major conclusions from this study are
1. At 5% addition of coconut fibre with a water cement ratio of 0.5, compressive

strength tests yielded best results. However, the compressive strength
decreased on further fibre addition. This must be due to the fact that when the
fibres are initially added to concrete, the finer sized fine aggregates enter into
the surface pores in the fibre creating a better bonding between the fibre and
mix, however further addition of fibres resulted in formation of bulk fibre in
the mix which will lead to decrease in bonding. Hence there is an optimum
value of fibre to cement ratio, beyond which the compressive strength
decreases. Hence 0.5 was taken as the optimum water cement ratio and
optimum fibre content was taken as 5%
2. When the fibre content is increased there is an increase in split tensile strength
with a maximum at 5%. However when the fibre content is increased beyond
this value a reduction in tensile strength is observed. This is due to the fact that

tensile failure occurs due to the dislocation of atoms and molecules present in
concrete. However when the fibre is added it acts as a binder holding them
together.
3. When fibre content is increased there is an increase in flexural strength with a

maximum at 5% of fibre. However when the fibre content is increased beyond
this value a downward slope of the graph is observed. This is also due to the
binding properties of coconut fibre owing to its high tensile strength of 21.5
MPa.
4. A decreasing trend in compressive strength was observed in concrete with

mesh shaped fibres. This is due to formation of weak inter transition zone
around these fibres, making the entire specimen weak. Moreover the thickness
of the fibres can hinder better packing of the constituents of concrete thereby
making it weak. The presence of dust and other impurities on the surface of
fibres can also be another reason for this reduction in strength which may
interfere with the bonding of mix and subsequent strength formation.
5. The tensile properties and cracking pattern of CFRC shows that it can be
particularly useful in construction activities in seismic zones due to its high
tensile strength and post peak load behaviour, which offers sufficient warning
to the inhabitants before complete collapse of the structure.
6. Due to its relatively higher strength and ductility, It can be a good replacement
for asbestos fibres in roofing sheets, which being natural in origin pose zero
threat to the environment
7. Since higher strength is attained at a lower design mix. It can be used to

manufacture building blocks at relatively lower costs in comparison to plain
concrete blocks thus making it suitable for rural residential buildings upto 10m
height or as protection walls around buildings.
8. It can also be used as the reinforcement material in cement fibre boards which
can act as a good backing to tiles thereby improving its impact resistance and
also in faux ceilings. The advantage of cement fibre boards is its ability to
survive under moist environments unlike paper based gypsum boards

6.1 LIMITATIONS OF THE PROJECT
The limitations of this project are:
1) This study on coconut fibre reinforced concrete is limited to rural residential

constructions
2) The mix design is for M20 concrete and it is usually used in buildings of heights
upto10 m
3) Mix design for concrete is done for mild exposure conditions and corrosion study is
not done
6.2 FUTURE SCOPE
The effect of coconut fibres on high strength concrete should be studied and thus the
use of CFRC can be extended to industrial and commercial buildings. Since the
corrosion study is not done, the applicability of CFRC in reinforced constructions
could be tested.
Coconut fibre is a good insulator in itself and as such it can improve the thermal
properties of concrete. This is particularly useful in a tropical country like India where
the mercury levels are quite high for most part of the year, so as to maintain the room
temperatures within comfort levels of its inhabitants. It can also reduce the load on air
conditioning systems thus reducing the power consumption.
The acoustic properties of concrete reinforced with other natural fibres have been
studied in the past using an impedance tube apparatus and the results are fair enough
to justify the use of coconut fibres as an alternative which is a good absorbent due to
the presence of surface pores.

7. REFERENCES
1. Majid Ali, Nawawi Chouw (2012),“Experimental investigations on coconut-fibre
rope tensile strength and pullout from coconut fibre reinforced concrete”,
Construction and Building Materials, 41, 681–690
2. Reis J.M.L (2005),“Fracture and flexural characterization of naturalfiber-reinforced

polymer concrete”, Construction and Building Materials 20 (2005) 673–678
3. Majid Ali, Anthony Liu, HouSou, Nawawi Chouw (2011),“Mechanical and

dynamic properties of coconut fibre reinforced concrete” Construction and Building
Materials 30 (2011) 814–825
4. Noor Md. Sadiqul Hassan, Habibur Rahman Sobuz (2012),“Use of coconut fibre in
production of structural light weight concrete”, Journal of applied sciences 12(9) 831-
839, 2012
5. Vijay Chavada, A.A Parikh (2013), “An application review of coir fibre reinforced
concrete”, Vol. 2 Issue 4 ISSN: 2278-7844
6. A Zuraida, H Zahurin, I Sopiyan (2011),“Effect of fibre length variation on

physical and mechanical properties of coir fibre reinforced concrete”,Materials
Physics and Mechanics 16 (2013) 107-117
7. P Nibasumba, X L Liu (2011),”Recent developments in fibre reinforced concrete

and their effect on concrete columns analysis”, Construction and Building Materials
2011;18(7):549–58
8. Joanna M Ferraz, Sabrina A Martins, Claudio H.S Del Menezzi (2013), “Effect of
coir fibre treatment and coir-fibre ratio on properties of cement bonded composites”,
Bio Resources 6(3), 3481-3492
9. Dr.M.Sivaraja (2009), ”Application of Coir Fibres as Concrete Composites for

Disaster prone Structures” International Journal of Civil and Environmental
Engineering Sci., Vol. 33, No. 6, December 2009, pp. 719–729.

10. Izad Amir Bin Abdul Karim (2012),“Effect of coconut waste on concrete
structure component”ARPN Journal of Engineering and Applied Sciences, 30(2012).
2538 – 2547.
11. Yalley, P. P. and Kwan, A.S K (2008), “Use of coconut fibre as an enhancement
of concrete”, International Journal of Sustainable Construction Engineering
&Technology, 27(5), 2008, pp. 575-582.
12. Kamel K.Alzboon and Khalid N.Mahasneh (2009), “Effect of Using Mattress
Waste on the Compression Strength and Slump Characteristics of Concrete”,
Construction and Building Materials 2009;23(2):865–71.
13. Nanayakkaza N.H, (2011) “Characterisation and determination of properties of

Sri Lanka coconut”, Journal of Natural Fibres, 2(1), 2011, pp 69-81.
14. Bhowmick B.B. and Debnath C. R. (2007), “Properties of coir”, Indian coconut
journal, 15, (5), 2007. p.12
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coconut ﬁbre reinforced concrete

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COCONUT FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE

ADITYA TOM (Reg.No. 10001911)

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

AFFILIATED TO MAHATMA GANDHI UNIVERSITY

Ms. Jiss Abraham Sr. Claramma Rosary

Date: May 2014

Keywords : Compressive strength, Tensile strength, Flexural strength, CFRC, Fibre

Sustainability is a wide accepted concept in modern construction scenario. Even

LIST OF TABLES .................................................................................................................. vi

LIST OF FIGURES ...............................................................................................................vii

LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS. ................................................................................................ x

1.1 BACKGROUND ......................................................................................................... 1

1.2 NEED FOR STUDY ................................................................................................... 2

1.3 OBJECTIVES AND SCOPE ...................................................................................... 2

1.4 METHODOLOGY ...................................................................................................... 3

1.5 ORGANISATION OF REPORT ................................................................................ 3

2. LITERATURE REVIEW ................................................................................................ 4

2.2 FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE ......................................................................... 4

2.3 COCONUT FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE ..................................................... 4

3.1 LITERATURE REVIEW ............................................................................................ 7

3.2 COLLECTION OF RAW MATERIALS ................................................................... 7

3.3 MATERIAL TESTS ................................................................................................... 7

3.3.1 TESTS ON CEMENT..........................................................................................7

3.3.2 TESTS ON COARSE AGGREGATE ...............................................................10

3.3.3 TESTS ON FINE AGGREGATE ......................................................................12

3.4 MIX DESIGN ........................................................................................................... 13

3.5 MIXING OF CONCRETE ........................................................................................ 13

3.6 CASTING AND CURING........................................................................................ 14

3.7 TESTING OF SPECIMEN ....................................................................................... 14

4. STUDY ON MATERIALS USED ................................................................................. 16

4.2 CEMENT .................................................................................................................. 16

4.3 FINE AGGREGATE................................................................................................. 17

4.4 COARSE AGGREGATE.......................................................................................... 18

4.6 COCONUT FIBRE ................................................................................................... 18

4.6.1 RAW FIBRE ......................................................................................................19

4.6.2 PROCESSED FIBRES ......................................................................................19

4.7 TESTS ON MATERIALS – RESULTS AND DISCUSSION ................................ 20

4.7.1 TESTS ON CEMENT........................................................................................20

4.7.2 TESTS ON COARSE AGGREGATE ...............................................................21

4.7.3 TESTS ON FINE AGGREGATE ......................................................................24

4.8 SUMMARY OF MATERIAL PROPERTIES .......................................................... 28

4.8.1 PROPERTIES OF CEMENT ............................................................................28

4.8.2 PROPERTIES OF FINE AGGREGATES ........................................................29

4.8.3 PROPERTIES OF COARSE AGGREGATES .................................................30

5. CASTING AND TESTING OF CONCRETE SPECIMEN ....................................... 31

5.1 TESTS ON FRESH CONCRETE ............................................................................. 31

5.1.1 SLUMP TEST ....................................................................................................31

5.2 TESTS ON HARDENED CONCRETE ................................................................... 31

5.2.1 COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH TEST ...............................................................31

5.2.2 SPLIT TENSILE STRENGTH TEST ...............................................................32

5.2.3 FLEXURAL STRENGTH TEST ......................................................................32

5.3.1 MIX DESIGN ....................................................................................................33

5.3.2 CASTING PROCEDURE .................................................................................39

5.4 TEST RESULTS AND ANALYSIS ........................................................................ 43

5.4.1 SLUMP TEST ....................................................................................................43

5.4.2 COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH ..........................................................................43

5.4.3 SPLIT TENSILE STRENGTH TEST ...............................................................49

5.4.4 FLEXURAL STRENGTH TEST ......................................................................54

6.1 LIMITATIONS OF THE PROJECT ........................................................................ 62