MECHANICAL PERFORMANCE OF FIBER REINFORCED CONCRETE WITH DURIAN (DURIO ZIBETHINUS) RINDS AS SELF-HEALING AGENT

Abstract

This study investigates the potential of Durian Rinds Fiber (DRF) and synthesized Self Healing Material derived from Durian Rinds (SHM-DRF) as cement replacements to mitigate cracks and enhance the physical and mechanical properties of concrete, particularly in disaster-prone regions like the Philippines. Evaluating the impact of DRF and SHM-DRF at different replacement percentages (1%, 3%, and 5%), the research explores properties such as water absorption, density, and mechanical behavior through destructive and non-destructive tests. Utilizing SEM-EDX, TGA, BET, and visual observation, the study reveals significant improvements in mechanical, microstructural, thermal, and water absorption properties. DRF enhances tensile strength notably, reaching 275.36 MPa ± 52.70, while SHM-DRF contributes to CaCO3 formation crucial for sealing and healing concrete cracks. The findings suggest varying influences of replacement percentages on strength, with DSH1 displaying the highest compressive strength (31.75 MPa ± 2.52) and best self-healing efficiency. At the same time, DSH3 exhibits the highest flexural strength (4.53 MPa ± 0.28). Keywords: Natural Fiber, Characterization, Synthesis, Visual Observation, Crack Repair, Cement Replacement.