Mechanical properties of straw basalt fiber reinforced concrete composites

Abstract

One of the biggest problems responsible of the nonrenewable resources depletion and environmental issues is the construction industries, which generates large amounts of mineral waste and harmful emitted gases. Therefore, these problems generated the necessity to search for alternative natural building materials based on renewable resources. To study the mechanical characteristics and microstructural behavior of the concrete reinforced by raw wheat straw basalt fiber composite (RWSBFc), and treated rice straw basalt fiber composite (TRSBFc), a number of experimental tests were carried out with different composites ratios. Concrete compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, and flexural strength tests were considered as main parameters. The results showed that the RWSBFC has a positive effect on concrete flexural strength by increasing of 12.58%, compared with control samples. Also, it showed good enhancement in concrete flexibility and ductility. In contrast, both RWSBFc and TRSBFc showed uneven deterioration in concrete compressive strength and splitting tensile strength. To avoid the deterioration in compressive strengths of the various composites types, some improvement methods such as processors for the used straw, and adding some additives were recommended.