Mechanical and Durability Studies on Ficus exasperata Leaf Ash Concrete

This paper reports the effect of snake grass (SG) fibers in Ficus exasperata Leaf Ash (FELA) concrete. Snake grass fibers of percentages 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 were used in this investigation. Tests of compressive strength, split tensile strength, and flexural strength and durability studies of salt resistance, sulphate resistance, and impact energy resistance were determined, and the test results are discussed in detail. Test results revealed that FELA ash of 15% replacement in cement showed remarkable binding property. Moreover, incorporation of snake grass fiber in concrete improves the strength, postcracking resistance, and energy absorption. It is also observed that 1.5% snake grass fiber incorporation in concrete exhibited better strength properties and energy absorption property than 0.5% and 1%. Also, beyond 1.5%, there is significant reduction in workability property. Regardless of durability property, the mix containing 1.5% snake grass fiber has shown better resistance against durability when compared with other mixes. It is also observed that penetration of chloride and sulphate ions made slight deterioration at sharp edges. Moreover, test results revealed that applications of FELA concrete with snake grass fiber can be effectively expanded in the construction industry.

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