An experimental investigation of abaca (Musa textilis nee) textile reinforced mortar in structural strengthening through concrete confinement

Date of Publication

11-1-2024

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Civil Engineering

Subject Categories

Structural Engineering

College

Gokongwei College of Engineering

Department/Unit

Civil Engineering

Thesis Advisor

Dr. Andres Winston C. Oreta

Dr. Jason Maximino C. Ongpeng

Defense Panel Chair

Engr. Richard De Jesus

Defense Panel Member

Dr. Bernardo Lejano

Dr. Jason Maximino Ongpeng

Abstract/Summary

The growing demand for infrastructure driven by population growth necessitates the adoption of sustainable construction practices to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. As part of this shift, there is an increasing focus on green solutions, particularly in the materials used for construction. Textile-reinforced mortar (TRM) has gained attention as an alternative to fiber-reinforced polymers (FRP) due to its cost-effectiveness, simplicity, and superior temperature resistance. However, conventional TRM systems rely on synthetic, non-biodegradable reinforcements such as carbon and glass. This study explores the potential of using residual abaca fibers, often discarded as waste, as a sustainable reinforcement alternative in TRM. Abaca fibers, known for their high tensile strength and durability, are treated with 5% sodium hydroxide (NaOH) to enhance interfacial bonding between the fibers and the cementitious matrix. By optimizing thickness (single-ply and double-ply) and grid spacings (10 mm, 15 mm, and 20 mm), the research evaluates the performance of abaca fibers in TRM systems for concrete confinement applications. The results indicate that double-ply twined abaca fibers with a 15x15 mm grid spacing achieved optimal tensile strength while minimizing elongation and mass per unit area. The one-layer TRM system exhibited a 35.40% increase in tensile strength. In comparison, the two-layer system demonstrated an 8.09% improvement in ultimate strain, highlighting the impact of textile configuration on the TRM system's mechanical properties. Furthermore, the TRM system significantly enhanced concrete confinement, with compressive strength increasing by 25.52% for the one-layer system and 51.32% for the two-layer system. The alkali treatment improved the interfacial bonding by removing impurities and increasing the fiber surface roughness, contributing to a more robust mechanical interlock. The study recommends developing an automated machine for abaca textile production, exploring the efficiency of single-ply textiles, and applying abaca-based TRM in real-world structural applications. This research promotes sustainability by integrating renewable, locally sourced materials into the construction industry.

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Keywords

Abaca (Fiber); Concrete—Testing

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Embargo Period

12-10-2024

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