Influence of Jute Fiber inclusion on the properties of UHPC

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of jute fiber inclusion on the properties of Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC). UHPC is renowned for its superior mechanical properties and durability, but its high cost and environmental impact necessitate exploration of sustainable and cost-effective reinforcement alternatives. Jute fiber, a natural, biodegradable, and abundantly available material, was incorporated into UHPC mixtures at varying percentages of 0%, 0.25%, 0.5%, 0.75% and 1% by volume. The mechanical properties is determined by compressive strength and durability aspects are determined by water absorption, Sorptivity, and Shrinkage test. Results indicate that the inclusion of jute fibers significantly enhances the tensile and flexural strengths of UHPC while maintaining its high compressive strength. Furthermore, the addition of jute fibers improves the material's durability by reducing water absorption and porosity, thereby increasing its resistance to environmental degradation. These findings suggest that jute fiber is a viable eco friendly reinforcement material for UHPC, potentially leading to more sustainable construction practices without compromising performance.