Evaluating the Performance of Hybrid Fiber Reinforced Concrete Incorporating Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA), Banana Fiber and Sisal Fiber

Abstract

Concrete is one of the most widely used construction materials due to its high compressive strength, durability, availability, and versatility. However, conventional concrete is relatively weak in tension and is susceptible to cracking and brittle failure. The incorporation of fibers into concrete is an effective approach for improving its crack resistance and mechanical performance. The present study investigates the performance of Hybrid Fiber Reinforced Concrete incorporating Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) solution, banana fiber, and sisal fiber. In the present investigation, M25 grade concrete was used as the base concrete. Polyvinyl Alcohol powder was dissolved in water and incorporated into the concrete at a constant dosage of 2.5% by weight of cement. Banana fiber and sisal fiber were incorporated at different volume fractions of 0%, 0.25%, 0.50%, and 0.75%. A total of ten concrete mixtures, designated as M0 to M9, were prepared to investigate the individual and combined effects of banana and sisal fibers. The experimental programme included the slump test, compressive strength, split tensile strength, flexural strength, water absorption. Overall, the study demonstrates the potential of PVA-banana-sisal hybrid fiber reinforced concrete as a promising alternative for improving the mechanical performance of M25 concrete. The use of banana and sisal fibers also provides an opportunity to utilize renewable natural materials in cement-based construction. Further investigations are recommended to evaluate long-term durability, microstructural characteristics, shrinkage and creep behaviour, economic feasibility, and structural-scale applications of the developed hybrid concrete.