Session: 15-01-01: ASME International Undergraduate Research and Design Exposition

Paper Number: 146161

146161 - : Comparative Analysis of Synthetic Fibers in Cement-Based Composites: Impact on Mechanical Properties 

This study evaluates the performance of three types of synthetic fibers—FiberForce 150, Embossed Tape Macrosynthetic Fiber, and a Blend of Macro and Micro Synthetic Fibers—in cement-based composites through experimental testing. FiberForce 150, composed of monofilament microfibers from 100% virgin homopolymer polypropylene resins, primarily serves as plastic shrinkage crack-control reinforcement in concrete, with exceptional finishability suitable for residential applications. The Embossed Tape Macrosynthetic Fiber, utilizing co-polymer technology with polypropylene and polyethylene resins, offers secondary crack reinforcement and superior bonding due to mechanical embossing. Additionally, it holds Department of Transportation approval where applicable. Lastly, the Blend of Macro and Micro Synthetic Fibers provides both plastic and drying shrinkage control, enhanced durability, and precise reinforcement placement, ideal for slab-on-grade finishes.

 

Through experimentation, it was observed that cement-based composites reinforced with short polypropylene fibers exhibited the highest compression strength among the tested fibers. These findings offer valuable insights into selecting the most suitable synthetic fiber reinforcement for improving the mechanical properties of cement-based composites.

Presenting Author: Amina Tandukar Slippery Rock University

Presenting Author Biography: mina Tandukar is an enthusiastic and driven undergraduate student majoring in civil engineering at Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania. Currently, she is conducting research under the supervision of Dr. Robabeh Jazaei, focusing on cement-based composites.

Authors:

Robabeh Jazaei Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania
Amina Tandukar Slippery Rock University
Brayden Underwood Slippery Rock University
Amber Maurer Slippery Rock University