Performance Evaluation of Fiber Reinforced Concrete Using Basalt, Banana and Polypropylene Fibers

Paper ID: EIJTEM_2026_13_2_188-201

Author's Name: Venkata Sesha Sai Malasani, Venugopal P, Kalyani Gurram, Maheswararao R and Vijaya Sekhar B

Volume: 13

Issue: 2

Year: 2026

Page No: 188-201

Abstract:

This study investigates about the adding fibers specifically, polypropylene, banana, and basalt can improve the mechanical and durability properties of concrete. Fiber-reinforced mixes with 0.25% and 0.50% fiber by volume were compared to a control mix devoid of fibers. According to experimental data, fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC) had better qualities. For example, the compressive strength increased by 12%, from 32.5 MPa in the control mix to 36.4 MPa with 0.50% basalt fiber. Tests for durability, such as the Rapid Chloride Penetration Test, showed notable improvements: water absorption dropped from 5.2% to 4.2%, indicating decreased porosity, and impact resistance increased significantly from 18 blows for standard concrete to 45 for basalt fiber concrete. Furthermore, FRC retained 92% of its initial strength at 200°C heat testing, while regular concrete only retained 89%. In terms of strength, stiffness, and durability, basalt fiber at a 0.50% concentration continuously performed better than other fibers. Overall, fiber reinforcement greatly increased the durability and sustainability of concrete, indicating that it is appropriate for both structural and non-structural uses, such as industrial floors and pavements. The effectiveness of basalt fiber reinforced concrete for high-performance construction applications was confirmed by notable improvements of 12% in compressive strength, 27% in tensile strength, 41% in flexural strength, a 34% decrease in permeability, and more than 150% in impact resistance.

Keywords: Fiber Reinforced Concrete (FRC), Compressive Strength, Flexural Strength, Durability.

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