Comportamiento mecánico del concreto reforzado con fibras de bagazo de caña de azúcar

Abstract

The topic of the research that we are now going to describe focuses on the study of the incorporation of natural fibers to a cement matrix. First of all the state of art was assessed to verify the existence of studies with similarities with the topic that might serve as references. Already in the field, we began with the collection of natural fiber in the Monterrey mill, (MALCA). Then we proceeded with the isolation of the fiber for a period not longer than three months; this period of time helps the fiber to have a natural drying process in order to prevent insects and bugs to degrade the bagasse. After this time, we proceeded with the curing of the natural fiber to avoid its degradation and to make it water-repellent by lowering the absorption rate. Once this process has been completed, we continue with the characterization testing of the aggregates and the cement. With the data obtained in the laboratory we designed the standard mixture. The readjustment of the standard mixture is given by the lack of fluency in the mixture. The testing specimens are being developed for later testing at the laboratory. Once the requirements and benefits of the design are fulfilled, we proceed to the incorporation of fibers in percentages of the 1.50, 2.50, 5.00 and 8.00 in relation to the volume of the mixture to be manufactured. The specimens for each percentage of fiber are elaborated and they are subsequently tested at the laboratory in order to obtain the resistance values both to single compression and to traction by flexing. With these data we evaluate which features and peculiarities the different concretes have with their fiber rates. Finally, the production cost of a concrete reinforced with natural fiber (CRFN) is calculated, and compared to the production cost of a concrete reinforced with synthetic fibers.