Structural Behavior of Phoenix Dactylifera L. Fibers Reinforced Concrete

The continuous demands for stringent environmental regulation and increased interests in the preservation of natural resources have motivated industries and research institutions to examine and consider alternative approaches on the use of renewable resources and waste by-products. This study was conducted using one of the most available natural fiber types worldwide, the Phoenix Dactylifera L. Fibers, commonly known as Date Palm Fibers (DPF). Limited researches and inconsistencies in results obtained have been reported in literature on the use of DPF in concrete. Thus, there is a need of further evaluation and study on the structural behavior of fiber reinforced concrete with DPF. The present study used DPF as a natural reinforcement in concrete at varying content of 0%, 0.6%, 1.0%, and 1.4%; and different fiber lengths of 0 mm, 15 mm, 30 mm, and 45 mm. The results indicated that integration of DPF affects the physical properties particularly the workability and density of fresh concrete. Generally, the mechanical properties such as compressive strength, tensile strength, and flexural strength of DPF reinforced concrete decreases as the amount of DPF increases in content and fiber lengths. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis was carried out to examine the internal behavior and effect of DPF in the hardened concrete. Matrix deboning, fiber fractures, and voids due to the pull-out effect were observed as failure modes that contributed to lower compressive strength, tensile strength, flexural strength, and deflection as compared to control specimen.