CHAPTER 1

Introduction

1.1 Background of the Study

Environmental issues has changed the mindset and the mechanism of material

and structural designing. Since then, a lot of structures design and specifications has

become environmental friendly. In engineering and construction sector, environmental

effects is now one of the factors to be considered when designing structures. The use of

locally produced eco- friendly alternative building materials that offer unique strength,

stability and versatility in its applications have significantly become a necessity in material

selection and economy.

As development of green structures which is made up of eco-friendly and

sustainable construction materials continue, porous concrete pavements are no

exemption. Porous concrete is a free drainage concrete, it means that the air and water

permeate freely through systems of interconnected voids and pores. In this perspective it

is an eco-friendly concrete. Porous concrete is usually used for various kinds of

pavements, parking lots, sidewalks and so on. Also, porous concrete has alternate names

such as permeable concrete and pervious concrete. Porous Concrete is produced by

mixing coarse aggregates with cement, water, little to no fine aggregates and admixture.

Porous concrete helps in storm/ rain water runoff management recharging local aquifers

and letting the runoff to nourish vegetation nearby.

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 The voids of the porous concrete caused its strength to be less in comparison with

conventional concrete. Researchers continuously study on how to fill the gap to

strengthen porous concrete and even conventional concrete in a unique method.

Fiber Reinforced Concrete (FRC) became popular especially in 1960s. Fiber

cement was probably amongst the latest materials on the market to have contained large

quantities of asbestos (Hardie, 2003) but in recent decades, government regulations have

banned the use of asbestos due to its harmful effects on health. Thus, attempts have

been made to find replacement for asbestos (Morteza et al, 2010). The most commonly

used fibers are synthetic, steel, glass, carbon, and graphite which contribute high strength

and modulus for structural applications (Pablo, 2011).

Newly introduced to the Philippines and just recently been approved for use by the

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Fibrin 23 is a monofilament

polypropylene extract fiber, non-toxic and not hazardous to health specifically develop as

a crack control additive for cementitious material. It is resistant to acid and alkali

chemicals and reduces the occurrence of plastic shrinkage and settlement cracks, while

enhancing the surface properties and durability of hardened concrete. The fiber are

extremely fine, single filament and coated with special compound to aid dispersion that

enables excellent dispersion of individual filament with the concrete mix.

Fibrin 23 is used in all ground and suspended floor slabs, plastering of internal or

external walls where unsightly shrinkage cracking needs to be avoided. It is commonly

specified in concrete for residential and commercial buildings, industrial warehouses,

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agricultural buildings, water structures, driveways, sea ports roads and bridges. (Tertex

International Philippines, 2011)

Properties of FIBRIN 23

Polypropylene extract
Material
synthetic fiber
Design Micromonofilament
Fiber Length 12 mm
18m nominal diameter
Diameter (almost half the diameter
of human hair)
Shape Crimped
Color Natural
Tensile Strength 550 MPa max.
Melting Point 160 C max
UV Resistance High
Matrix Bonding Excellent
Coated for Dispersion,
Surface
adhesion and bonding
Density 0.91 g nominal
Absorption Nil
Chemical Resistance Satisfactory
Conductivity Minimal

TABLE 1: FIBRIN 23 Properties

Glass fibers are among the oldest and most versatile industrial materials known

today. They are readily produced from raw materials, which are available in virtually

unlimited supply. All glass fibers are derived from compositions containing silica. They

exhibit properties such as strength, flexibility, and stiffness. Glass fibers are used in the

manufacture of structural composites, printed circuit boards and a wide range of special-

purpose products.

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 Specially produced glass fibers such as Alkali Resistant Glass (ARG) Fibers are

designed specifically for use in concrete to prevent cracking and increase its engineering

properties. ARG fibers are manufactured from a specially formulated glass composition

with an optimum level of Zirconia (ZrO2) to be suitable for use in concrete. These ARG

fibers are designed to resist breaking down during mixing and processing so that it stays

basically as a bundle of filaments. ARG fiber have high tensile strength and modulus.

In promoting further studies and developments on porous concrete, especially on

fiber- reinforced porous concrete, this research investigates the potentials of Fibrin 23

and AR Glass Fibers as reinforcement for porous concrete pavement.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Many of the conventional structural materials has its own strengths and

weaknesses like steel has high tensile strength but corrodes if exposed for a long time.

Concrete has high compressive strength but low tensile strength.

Porous Concrete has high void content and good in sound absorption. However, it

has low compressive strength and flexural strength thus, making porous concrete limited

to pavement construction and horizontal structures. Because of this weakness, synthetic

fibers are mixed with porous concrete as reinforcement for investigation. Can these

synthetic fibers contribute to any significant increase in strength qualified for standards?

We used synthetic fibers because natural fibers deteriorate rapidly due to constant

exposure to weather which is the case if it is mixed with porous concrete.

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 This research study revolves around the question: Can Fibrin 23 or Alkali-

Resistant Glass Fiber enhance the properties of porous concrete in terms of strength

qualified for standards for concrete pavement?

1.3 Purpose of the Study

Porous concrete allows rain and storm water runoff to infiltrate through it rather

than flood the surrounding areas or create ponding. Also, it acts as a filter trapping and

removing pollutants from rain runoff. Although porous concrete is ecologically good, it has

a lot of voids causing the strength of the concrete to significantly decrease. Because of

this, porous concrete is often limited to its use as sidewalks, driveways and parking lots.

There are previous studies made that uses Fibrin 23 and ARG fibers in

conventional concrete but not in porous concrete. This study is done to assess the

effectiveness of the newly produced synthetic fiber, specifically Fibrin 23 and ARG Fibers,

on a porous concrete mix for pavement in order to increase the flexural strength while

maintaining the its porosity. Also, this studys purpose is to compare which between the

Fibrin 23 and ARG fibers is more effective in porous concrete in terms of strength and

porosity.

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1.4 Objective of the Study

1.4.1 General Objectives

To determine the effects of adding Fibrin 23 and Alkali Resistant Glass (ARG)

Fiber as reinforcement to porous concrete mix to the compressive strength, flexural

strength and porosity of porous concrete and evaluate the effectiveness of using fibers in

improving the properties of porous concrete.

1.4.2 Specific Objectives

Specifically, the study aims to:

a. determine the compressive strength, flexural strength and porosity of a

porous concrete mix without fiber reinforcement

b. determine the compressive strength, flexural strength and porosity of a

porous concrete mix with Fibrin 23 as fiber reinforcement

c. determine the compressive strength, flexural strength and porosity of a

porous concrete mix with Alkali Resistant Glass (ARG) Fiber as

reinforcement

d. compare which between Fibrin 23 and ARG fibers is more effective as

fiber reinforcement to porous concrete

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1.5 Scope and Delimitations

The study is concentrated on the development and finding out the effects of Fibrin

23 and Alkali Resistant Glass Fibers as reinforcement in porous concrete as pavement.

The study aims to carry out physical and mechanical properties of the Fibrin 23 and Alkali

Resistant Glass Fiber reinforced porous concrete in accordance with ASTM Standards.

Unit Weight, Specific Gravity and Water Absorption of the aggregates, abrasion

resistance and void content test determined the material properties. Infiltration rate test

(ASTM C1701) determines the physical property while Compressive strength test (ASTM

C39) and Flexural strength test (ASTM C78) determines the mechanical property of the

pavement. Also, the producing and testing of samples shall be done with accordance to

the design parameters for materials and test requirements stated in Item 311: Portland

Cement Concrete Pavement of DPWH Blue Book.

In the laboratory, porous concrete mixtures have been found to develop

compressive strengths in the range of 500 to 4000 psi (3.5 MPa to 28 MPa), which is

suitable for a wide range of applications. (Tennis et al, 2004) Typical values are about

2500 psi (17 MPa). As with any concrete, the properties and combinations of specific

materials, as well as placement techniques and environmental conditions, will dictate the

actual in-place strength. However, currently there is no ASTM test standard for

compressive strength of porous concrete. Testing variability measured with various draft

test methods has been found to be high and therefore compressive strength is not

recommended as an acceptance criterion. Rather, it is recommended that a target void

content between 15% to 25% as measured by ASTM C1688: Standard Test Method for

Density and Void Content of Freshly Mixed Pervious Concrete, be specified for quality
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assurance and acceptance. As stated in ACI 522.1-13: Specification for Pervious

Concrete Pavement, the tolerance for the specified void content is 5%.

Flexural strength in pervious concretes generally ranges between about 150 psi (1

MPa) and 550 psi (3.8 MPa). Many factors influence the flexural strength, particularly

degree of compaction, porosity, and the aggregate-to-cement (A/C) ratio. However, the

typical application constructed with pervious concrete does not require the measurement

of flexural strength for design.

Due to equipment and time constraint, investigation and analyses of chemical

composition and microstructure of FIBRIN 23 and AR Glass fiber as reinforcement were

not qualified and quantified in this research. Flexural strength test (ASTM C78) at fourteen

(14) days and compressive strength test (ASTM C39) at twenty- eight (28) days will be

done according to the test requirements for pavements required by the DPWH Blue Book

(Item 311.2.11). The design strength for compression is 24.1 MPa (3500 psi) and flexural

strength of not less than 3.8 MPa (550 psi) when tested by the third-point method or 4.5

MPa (650 psi) when tested by the mid-point method at fourteen (14) days (DPWH Blue

Book Item 311.2.11). The value of infiltration rate of porous concrete should be between

288 756 in/hr (0.203 0.533 cm/sec) (Tennis et al, 2004). Due to time and financial

constraint, curing days are limited to only one per test. 14 days for flexural strength test

and 28 days for both compressive strength test and Infiltration rate test. Costing of the

porous concrete pavement fabrication was not also included in this study.

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1.6 Conceptual Framework
.

INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT

1. Environmental Issue 1. Material Preparation 1. Physical Properties
1.1 Management of
Storm Water Runoff 1.1 Procurement of Tests Results
materials 1.1 Void Content
2. Concept 1.2 Preparation and 1.2 Permeability
2.1 Utilizing construction testing of Coarse and
fibers to produce
sustainable, strong and Fine aggregates, and 2. Mechanical
durable porous concrete cement Properties Test Results
pavement 1.3 Fabrication of
2.2 Finding optimum type
2.1 Flexural Strength
specimens for
of fiber and fiber content 2.2 Compressive
on porous concrete laboratory testing
Strength
2.3 Finding the effects of 1.4 Curing of
FIBRIN 23 and AR Glass specimens
fiber as a reinforcement 3. Optimum fiber
to porous concrete content
2. Determination of the
3. Resources Physical Properties
Requirements 4. Optimum fiber type
2.1 Void Content for reinforcing porous
3.1 FIBRIN 23
3.2 AR Glass Fiber
2.2 Permeability concrete
3.3 Portland Cement
3.4 Coarse Aggregates 3. Determination of the
3.6 Fine Aggregates Mechanical Properties
3.7 Admixture 3.1 Flexural Strength
3.8 Potable Water
3.2 Compressive
4. Instruments Strength
4.1 Universal Testing
Machine (UTM)
4.2 Los Angeles Abrasion
Machine
4.3 Concrete mixer
4.4 Digital Weighing
Scale
4.5 Sieve
4.6 Drying Oven

Figure 1: Conceptual Framework

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 Figure 1 shows the conceptual framework of our research study entitled: The

Effects of Fibrin 23 and Alkali Resistant Glass Fiber as Reinforcement in Porous

Concrete. The framework is divided into three (3) phases, Input Process Output. This

framework is considered to be the general guideline and procedure that the research

study will undergone

Input phase

It is essential to determine the focus study and background of the research which

is to evaluate and assess the effectiveness of Fibrin 23 and ARG Fiber as Reinforcement

in Porous Concrete Pavement. The main components for comparison of the Fiber

reinforced Porous Concrete are Fibrin 23 and Alkali Resistant Glass Fibers. Other

components of the porous concrete are as follows: Portland cement, Coarse Aggregates,

Fine Aggregates, Admixture and Potable Water. These materials are subjected to

undergo process and several tests using the instruments used for the specific tests in the

determination of Physical and Mechanical Properties of Materials.

Process phase

It is essential to identify and produce a time frame for the study, from Material

Procurement and Preparation to the application of tests on the materials to secure the

feasibility of the research. The material preparation includes: Procurement of materials,

Preparation and testing of Coarse and Fine aggregates, and cement, Fabrication of

specimens for laboratory testing, curing of specimens. The specimens are subjected to

different tests according to American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM) Standards

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which leads to the conclusion of the evaluation and assessment of the effects of Fibrin 23

and ARG Fibers in Porous Concrete pavement. Consequently, the specimens (Fiber

reinforced Porous Concrete) will undergo tests to determine its compressive strength,

flexural strength and permeability by infiltration rate.

Output phase

It is necessary to present the output of this experimental- based research study

entitled, Effects of Fibrin 23 and Alkali Resistant Glass Fibers in Porous Concrete.

Herewith are the results and graphs of the tests undertaken to the material, Fibrin 23

Reinforced Porous Concrete and Alkali Resistant Reinforced Porous Concrete in relative

to the Compressive strength, Flexural strength and Permeability by Infiltration Rate.

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1.7 Significance of the Study

Specifically, this study entitled: The Effects of Fibrin 23 and Alkali Resistant Glass

Fibers as Reinforcement in Porous Concrete is significant and beneficial to the following:

To the Civil Engineers, this will provide data to those professionals who are

interested in the advancement of researches in discovering new sustainable and effective

materials for reinforcement of porous concrete pavements which can offer unique

strength, stability, versatility, affordability, and safety to both users and environment.

To the Construction Industry, this will give them information on meeting the

market standards and on building roadways and sidewalks with complete advantages

while doing no harm and preserving the environment.

To the Community, this will give them insights about prospective sources of

livelihood in eco-friendly construction materials as they simultaneously maximize the

fibers and other natural resources. Also, using porous concrete as research will promote

the importance of runoff, groundwater and overall, the environment.

To the Future Researchers, this will serve as their reference for the future studies

using other fibers or mix designs as a potential source information that could be used in

porous concrete pavement technology and applications.

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1.8 Definition of Terms

Abrasion The process of wearing or scraping due to friction

Admixture A chemical or substance mixed with concrete to enhance its properties

Alkali- Resistant Glass Fiber (ARG) Derived from silica, a specially formulated glass

composition with an optimum level of Zirconia (ZrO2).

AR Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete (ARGFRC) - Concrete mixed with Alkali Resistant

Glass Fibers

Asbestos A naturally occurring silicate materials which were often mixed with concrete

but now is banned due to health and safety risk

ASTM American Society for Testing and Materials

Cement A building material used as a binder in making concrete

Coarse Aggregate - Particles greater than 4.75mm, but generally range between 9.5mm

to 37.5mm in diameter (i.e. gravel and crushed stones)

Concrete Composite made by mixing Cement, Fine and coarse aggregates, water,

and/ or admixture

Density Mass per unit volume

DPWH Department of Public Works and Highways

Fiber Reinforced Concrete (FRC) Concrete mixed with fibers either natural or

synthetic for the purpose of strengthening the concrete

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Fibrin 23 Reinforced Concrete (F23RC) Concrete mixed with Fibrin 23 Fibers

Fine Aggregate Sand or crushed stones with particles passing through a 9.5mm sieve

Flexural Strength The parameter or ability to resist deformation under load, also known

as Modulus of Rupture or Fracture Strength

Flexure The condition or state of being bent or curved

Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GFRC) - Concrete mixed with Ordinary Glass Fibers

Infiltration Entry of water into soil or materials surface

Pavement A horizontal structure or surface intended to bear vehicular or foot traffic

Percolation Downward flow of water through soil or porous materials

Porous Concrete A concrete that allows water to pass through it due to its voids, also

called pervious concrete or permeable concrete

Specific Gravity The ratio of density of the material to the density of a standard (usually

water or air)

SSD Saturated Surface Dry. It is a state where the surface of a particle is dry but its

voids are saturated with water.

Synthetic Fiber Man- made fibers produced by chemicals

Unit Weight Weight per unit volume

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 CHAPTER 2

REVIEW OF THE RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

This chapter shows the different foreign and local studies related to this research.

Ideas, methodologies, techniques, and instrumentations used that are significantly

connected to the present work are also examined. Moreover, comparisons from previous

related studies are discussed and the framework of the concept to be conducted are

illustrated and explained.

2.1 Related Literature and Studies

2.1.1 Strength of Porous Concrete

The pervious concrete system and its corresponding strength are as important as its

permeability characteristics (Chopra et al, 2007). Previous researches and studies

indicate that porous concrete has lower strength capabilities than conventional concrete

and will only support light traffic loadings. Voids are supposed to reduce the strength of

concrete (Klieger, 2003), In spite of the high voids content, properly placed pervious

concrete pavements can achieve strengths in excess of 3000 psi or 20.5 MPa and flexural

strengths of more than 500 psi or 3.5 MPa. This strength is more than adequate for most

low-volume pavement applications, including high axle loads for garbage truck and

emergency vehicles such as fire truck (Tennis et al, 2004).

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 TABLE 2: Applications of Porous
Concrete

All of these applications take advantage of the benefits of pervious concretes

characteristics. However, to achieve these results, mix design and construction details

must be planned and executed with care. (Tennis et al, 2004)

According to the DPWH Blue Book, the only test done to pavements is the flexural

strength test. A previous study was conducted to test the durability and flexural strength

of porous concrete by varying cement content. Using cement weighing 600 lbs., 548 lbs.,

and 462 lbs. for Mix 1, 2, and 3 respectively. The water- cement ratio used for all mixes

is 0.35. The results of the flexural strength test are: Mix 1 and 2 were acceptable for

pavement usage and durable considering that they reached the 600 lbs. flexural strength

(Rick Blackburn, Axim Italcementi, 2006). Flexural strength in pervious concretes

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generally ranges between about 150 psi (1 MPa) and 550 psi (3.8 MPa). (Tennis et al,

2004).

2.1.2 Fiber Reinforced Porous Concrete

Use of fibers in a brittle is not a new concept, the Egyptians used animal hairs,

straw to reinforce mud bricks and walls in houses, around 1500 B.C. (Balaguru et al,

1992). Ronald F. Zollo presented a report on fiber reinforced concrete in which he had

mentioned about 30 years of development and research. In the report it is claimed that

the work on Fiber Reinforced Concrete (FRC) started around 1960. Since than a lot of

work has been done on FRC using different methods of production as well as different

types of fiber, size of fiber, orientation and distribution. Portland cement pervious concrete

(PCPC) is increasingly used in the United States because of its various environmental

benefits such as controlling storm water runoff, restoring groundwater supplies, and

reducing water and soil pollution (Youngs, 2005 and Kajio et al, 1998). PCPC is usually

designed with high void content ranging from 15 to 25% due to its permeability

requirement. Single sized aggregate is commonly used to achieve such void content

(Tennis et al, 2004). Because of the single sized aggregates, the strength of PCPC

made is inadequate. As a result of this, addition of a small amount of fine sand and fiber

will improve the mixture. Replacement of fine sand (approximately 7% by weight of total

aggregate) to the mixes significantly improved the concrete strength and freezing

thawing resistance while maintaining adequate water permeability. Also, addition of fiber

increased the concrete strength, freezing thawing resistance as well as void content

(Wang et al. 2006).

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 Generally, addition of the fiber in PCPC slightly increased the void content and

significantly increased the permeability of the concrete. More importantly, it improved the

splitting tensile strength of concrete, which in turn enhanced the concrete freezing

thawing durability (Wang et al, 2006).

Instead of using natural fibers such abaca and coconut fiber, this study will use

synthetic fibers such as Fibrin 23 and ARG fibers as reinforcement.

Reasons for putting these fibers into cement-based materials are generally agreed

to be as follows:

1. Improvement of flexure (bending strength)

2. Improvement of impact toughness

3. Control of cracking and change in failure behavior to give post-crack loadbearing

capacity (Pablo, 2011).

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2.1.3 Effects of Polypropylene Fiber in Porous Concrete

Results of the study indicated that the Portland Cement Porous Concrete (PCPC)

made with single-sized coarse aggregate generally had high permeability but not

adequate strength. Addition of a small amount of fine sand (approximately 7% by weight

of total aggregate) to the mixes significantly improved the concrete strength and freezing-

thawing resistance while maintaining adequate water permeability. Addition of a small

amount of fiber varying from 1%, 3%, and 5% of the total mass of cement, cut in 5 cm (2

in) length, slightly increased the void content and increased the permeability of the

concrete. More importantly, it improved the compressive and splitting tensile strength of

the concrete, which in turn enhanced the concrete Freeze-Thaw durability. The study

concludes that when properly designed and constructed, proper strength and F-T

durability of PCPC can be achieved by use small amount of sand and microfibers in the

concrete. (Wang et al, 2006)

The table below shows the summary of related PCPC properties from literature:

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 Table 3: PCPC Properties from literature

(Wang, et al, 2006)

2.1.4 FIBRIN 23 as Reinforcing Material in Conventional Concrete

Fibrin 23 is a high performance monofilament Polypropylene fiber that enhances

the concrete properties and improve its durability. It is developed as a crack control

additive for concrete. The use of Fibrin, mainly to increase the impact resistance and to

reduce the shrinkage cracking of concrete, is a defined additive in the DPWH Blue Book

Section 311.2.8 issued in year 2013. It has contributed to increase the compressive and

flexural strength of the concrete.

Tertex International Philippines Inc., in cooperation with the Bureau of Research

and Standard, conducted a series of tests in year 2000 and lately this year 2015 to confirm

if the studies abroad on the use of polypropylene fibers can be used considering

Philippine conditions. The tests aim to know the effects of polypropylene fibers using
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Fibrin 23 on concrete in its fresh and hardened state for compressive strength, flexural

strength, workability, impact resistance, absorption, and abrasion resistance.

Fibrin 23, used as secondary reinforcement, helps reduce shrinkage and control

cracking without altering the mix design. Adding fibers to concrete normally reduces the

slump with minimal effect in workability thus, requiring the use of super plasticizer.

The 2000 test program showed that the compressive strength increased by 18.4%

at the 28 day curing period. The results showed that the slab with Fibrin can resist impact

at a ratio of 1.6 to 5.4 times stronger compared to a control concrete. Also, the results

showed minimal increase in flexural strength. The main objective of the 2015 test program

was to confirm previous testing done in year 2000 and further know the use of Fiber

Reinforced Concrete to improve the durability and workability of the concrete, minimizing

rate of bleeding, and preventing segregation during placement to achieve a durable and

longer lasting service life of the concrete structure. The 2015 test showed that the

compressive strength increased about 12% on the concrete with Fibrin 23 compared with

the control concrete. In terms of flexural strength, it became higher by 18% when

reinforced with Fibrin 23. Like the previous test, results of impact resistance showed 2

times that of the control concrete. (Malicse, et al., 2015)

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2.1.5 Glass Fiber as Reinforcing Material in Conventional Concrete

Griffiths (2000) conducted a research to investigate the mechanical properties of

glass fiber reinforced polyester polymer concrete. Griffiths concluded that the modulus of

rupture or flexure of polymer concrete containing 20% polyester resin and about 79% fine

silica aggregate is about 20 MPa. The addition of about 1.5% chopped glass fibers (by

weight of cement) to the material increases the modulus of rupture by about 20% and the

fracture toughness by about 55%. Overall, glass fibers improve the strength of the

concrete by increasing the design force required for deformation and improve the

toughness by increasing the energy required for crack propagation.

Chandramouli et al, (2010) investigated the Strength properties of glass fiber

concrete with grades of M20 to M50 in 2010. They observed that the percentage increase

of compressive strength of various grades of glass fiber concrete mixes compared with

28 days compressive strength is observed from 20 to 25% and the percentage increase

of flexural and split tensile strength of various grades of glass fiber concrete mixes

compared with 28 days is observed from 15 to 20%.

Jamboo Kumar Jain (2015) studied the effect of short discrete glass fibers on the

strength of concrete tiles by using up to 1.5% fiber content by weight of concrete. ARG

fibers were used. The glass fibers used had a density of 2.7 gm/cm 3, tensile strength

1700 MPa and Youngs Modulus 72 GPa. Compressive strength, split tensile, and flexural

strength test were used to determine the strength properties. Jain observed that the fiber

content must not be beyond 0.7% for proper workability. Observations of the study are as

follows:

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 1. The compressive strength of concrete without admixture is not affected by the

presence of short discrete glass fibers with fiber content in the range 0.1 to 0.3 %

of fiber content by weight of concrete.

2. The split tensile strength of concrete increases with the addition of glass fibers.

3. The flexural strength of concrete increases with the increase in fiber content and

as such the tension carrying capacity of concrete may increase in flexure

4. The wet transverse strength of tiles increases and the increase has been found

with addition of fibers

5. The water absorption of the concrete also decreases with increase in fiber

content.

6. The compressive strength of concrete with admixture was not affected up to 0.4

% fiber content but decreased with the presence of higher amount of fibers.

(Jamboo Kumar Jain, 2015)

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 Chapter 3

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY

3.1. Methodology

In order to evaluate the effects of fibrin 23 and alkali-resistant glass fiber on the

physical and mechanical properties of fiber-reinforced porous concrete, the researchers

conducted an experimental type of research. Experimental research is generally

considered as one of the most precise studies and has the most conclusive power. And,

its also known to be particularly effective in supporting hypotheses about cause and

effect relationships.

The Fibrin 23 was collected from Tertex International Philippines Inc. and the

Alkali-Resistant Glass (ARG) fiber was collected from Polymer Products Philippines Inc.

The strands were prepared into 12 mm cut fibers for Fibrin 23, and 50 mm cut fibers for

ARG, to serve as an additional material for the desired porous concrete mix prior to

compressive, flexural and permeability tests.

The standards adopted prior to the designing of porous concrete mix as per

American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) are composed of ASTM C188 -

Standard Test Method for Density of Hydraulic Cement, ASTM C29 - Standard Test

Method for Bulk Unit Weight in Aggregate, ASTM C127 and C128 -Standard Test Method

for Specific Gravity and Absorption of Fine and Coarse Aggregates, ASTM C136 -

Standard Test Method for Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse Aggregates, ASTM C131 -

Standard Test Method for Resistance to Degradation of Small-size Coarse Aggregate by

Abrasion and Impact in the Los Angeles Machine, and ASTM C143 - Standard Test

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Method for Slump of Hydraulic Cement Concrete, while the parameters that were

determined through each laboratory test includes the specific gravity of cement, unit

weight, specific gravity, absorption, fineness modulus of fine aggregates, and hardness

and resistance to wear of coarse aggregates.

The design of porous concrete mix was based on a previous study, Development

of Mix Proportion for Functional and Durable Pervious Concrete by Wang et al, 2006.

The cement coarse aggregate ratio is 1:4.5, but a small amount of sand was added to

increase the strength of concrete, replacing approximately 10% of the total mass of

coarse aggregates. Due to the low strength of porous concrete and to avoid accumulation

of cement paste in the bottom of the sample, the water-cement ratio recommended for

porous mix ranges from 0.26 0.30. In order to increase the workability of the mix without

compromising its strength, a super-plasticizer, Spark Superplas 0831, was added to the

mix. Three specimens were prepared for each test for compressive and flexural test

analysis, three samples of plain porous concrete, and three samples each reinforced with

fibrin 23 and ARG fiber, were tested in the universal testing machine (UTM). For infiltration

rate analysis, the same number of samples were tested. The curing of samples is exactly

fourteen (14) days for compressive and flexural strength tests and exactly twenty-eight

(28) days for the infiltration rate test.

Compressive strength test of cylindrical concrete specimens were conducted in

accordance with ASTM C39 - Standard Test Method for Compressive Strength of

Cylindrical Concrete Specimens. Flexural strength test of concrete was conducted in

accordance with ASTM C78 - Standard Test Method for Flexural Strength of Concrete

(Using Simple Beam with Third- Point Loading). The infiltration rate test of porous

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pavement was conducted in accordance with ASTM C1701 - Standard Test Method for

Infiltration Rate of In Place Pervious Concrete.

3.2. Materials and Equipment

In order to accomplish the experimental research program, the following materials

and equipment were used;

Eagle Portland cement was used as binder of the porous concrete mix, and is

here referred by the researchers as hydraulic cement or cement.

Standard gravel, passing 3/8 (9.5 mm) sieve but retained on No.4 (4.75 mm)

sieve, was used as a component of the porous concrete mix, and is here

referred by the researchers as coarse aggregates or gravel.

Standard sand was used to replace 6.5% of the total mass of gravel, and is

here referred by the researchers as fine aggregates or sand.

Spark Superplas 0831 was used as super plasticizer in the porous concrete

mix, and will be referred by the researchers as admixture or super plasticizer.

Synthetic fibers, namely Fibrin 23 and Alkali-Resistant Glass, ARG) fiber were

used as fiber reinforcement in the porous concrete mix.

Potable water was used in washing of synthetic fibers and in the porous

concrete mix.

Universal Testing Machine (UTM) was used for the compressive and flexural

strength test in accordance with ASTM C39 and ASTM C78, respectively.

Los Angeles Abrasion Machine was used for testing the abrasion of coarse

aggregates in accordance with ASTM C131.

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 Standard sieves were used for sieve analysis of aggregates in accordance with

ASTM C136, and also were used by the researchers to obtain a well-graded

coarse aggregates.

Cylindrical moulds (4 x 8) were used for the compressive strength test in

accordance with ASTM C39.

Beam moulds (4 x 4 x 12) were used for the flexural strength test in

accordance with ASTM C78.

Rectangular moulds (14 x 14 x 4) were used for the infiltration rate test in

accordance with ASTM C1701.

Infiltration ring (12 x 2) was used to measure the infiltration rate of the

porous pavement in accordance with ASTM C1701.

Electronic Digital Balance was used to measure the mass of materials.

Oven capable of maintaining a uniform temperature of 1105 OC was used to

oven-dry the aggregates in accordance with ASTM C127, ASTM C128, and

ASTM C136.

Le Chatelier flask was used to measure the specific gravity of cement in

accordance with ASTM C188.

Pycnometer bottle was used to measure the specific gravity of sand in

accordance with ASTM C128.

Solid, steel spheres were used as abrasive charge for testing the hardness

and resistance to wear of coarse aggregates in accordance with ASTM C131.

Grease were applied at the sides of the mold to prevent sample from sticking

to the mold after drying.

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 Clay was applied at the bottom of the infiltration ring to prevent leakage of

water in accordance with ASTM C1701.

Measuring device for measuring dimensions of molds and samples, and for

measuring of slump in accordance with ASTM C143.

3.3. Laboratory Tests Prior to Designing of Porous Concrete Mix

The gathering and preparation of materials was done first. The aggregates were

soaked in water for one day and then wiped using a dry towel to achieve Saturated

Surface Dry (SSD) condition. The tests performed were ASTM C188 (Standard Test

Method for Density of Hydraulic Cement), ASTM C29 (Standard Test Method for Bulk

Unit Weight in Aggregate), ASTM C127 and C128 (Standard Test Method for Specific

Gravity and Absorption of Fine and Coarse Aggregates), ASTM C136 (Standard Test

Method for Sieve Analysis of Fine and Coarse Aggregates), ASTM C131 (Standard Test

Method for Resistance to Degradation of Small-size Coarse Aggregate by Abrasion and

Impact in the Los Angeles Machine).

3.3.1. Specific Gravity Test for Hydraulic Cement

In accordance with ASTM C188, a water bath was used to stabilize the

temperature of the kerosene at 20OC. A standard weight of 64g was placed at the Le

Chatelier flask, with the initial and final volumetric readings of the kerosene noted. The

unit weight and specific gravity of cement were then calculated from the weight and

volumetric data.

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 3.3.2. Unit Weight of Aggregates

In accordance with ASTM C29, aggregates were oven-dried in an oven capable of

maintaining a uniform temperature of 1105OC. A cylindrical measure was used to

determine the unit weight of aggregates. The measure was filled with water at room

temperature with any water that have overflowed eliminated, and the mass of water and

measure was determined. To calculate the volume, V, of the cylindrical measure, the

temperature of the water was determined and its density was calculated based on the

temperature measured. After determining the volume of the measure, the measure was

filled to approximately 1/3 of the measure with aggregates and stroked 25 times with a

tamping rod, and the procedure was repeated until the measure was filled with

aggregates. The mass of the measure plus its contents was determined, and the mass of

the measure alone. The unit weight of aggregates was then calculated from the weight

and volumetric data.

M = (G T) / V

where:

M = bulk density of aggregate, kg/m3 (lb/ft3)

G = mass of aggregate plus the measure, kg (lb)

T = mass of the measure, kg (lb)

V = volume of measure, m3 (ft3)

3.3.3. Specific Gravity and Absorption of Aggregates

In accordance with ASTM C127 and ASTM C128, respectively, immersion of

gravel and sand into water is done 24 hours prior to the test proper to essentially fill the

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pores. A pycnometer bottle and electronic digital balance were used in weighing the sand,

while a wire basket and spring balance are used in weighing the gravel. Weight by

displacement method was adopted for computing the volume of the sample that was used

to calculate the relative density (specific gravity) of the aggregates, while the ratio

between the weights of aggregates at both SSD and oven-dried states were adopted in

the calculation of absorption.

Specific Gravity (OD) = A / (B C)

Specific Gravity (SSD) = B / (B C)

Specific Gravity (Apparent) = A / (A C)

Absorption, % = [(B A) / A] x 100

where:

A = mass of oven-dry test sample in air, kg (lb)

B = mass of SSD test sample in air, kg (lb)

C = apparent mass of saturated test sample in water, kg (lb)

3.3.4. Sieve Analysis of Fine Aggregates

In accordance with ASTM C136, a 500 g sample of sand and 1 kg sample of gravel

is prepared prior to drying into the oven capable of maintaining a uniform temperature of

110OC for 15 to 20 minutes. The standard sizes of sieves are arranged in decreasing

sizes wherein the over-dried aggregates will be putted on the uppermost sieve. Agitate

sieves by hand or by a sieve shaker for five (5) minutes, thereafter, the individual weights

in each sieve and pan are determined. A tabulated summary of the weights retained in

each sieve were used to determine the fineness modulus (FM) of the aggregates.

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 FM = Cumulative % retained on each sieve / 100

3.3.5. Hardness and Resistance to Wear of Coarse Aggregates

In accordance with ASTM C131, a 5 kg sample of gravel was washed and oven-

dried in oven capable of maintaining a uniform temperature of 110 OC. Prior to testing, the

gravel was divided in different size fractions by sieving depending on the grading of the

coarse aggregates. The grading of coarse aggregates in the study was Grade C, thus

2500 grams of gravel passing 3/8 (9.5 mm) sieve but retained on (6.35 mm) sieve

and 2500 grams of gravel passing (6.35 mm) sieve but retained on No. 4 sieve (4.75

mm) sieve were prepared, and put in the Los Angeles Abrasion machine together with 8

solid steel spheres having a mass between 390 and 445 g. The drum was rotated for 500

revolutions at 30 to 33 rev/min. After the machine finished rotating the required revolution,

the gravel was then sieved on the No. 4 (4.75 mm) sieve, then sieve those that passed

the No.4 sieve on the No. 12 (1.70 mm) sieve. The materials retained on the No. 4 and

No. 12 sieve were combined and oven-dried to calculate the percent wear or Los Angeles

Abrasion Value (L.A.A.V.) of the coarse aggregates. The value of L.A.A.V. should be less

than 30% for the coarse aggregate to be deemed suitable for all mixture (ASTM C131).

( #12)
. . . . = 100

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3.4. Design of Porous Concrete Mix

The design of porous concrete is based on a previous study, Development of Mix

Proportion for Functional and Durable Pervious Concrete (Wang et al., 2006) as shown

in Table 3.1. The cement coarse aggregate ratio is 1:4.5, but a small amount of sand

was added to increase the strength of concrete, replacing approximately 10% of the total

mass of coarse aggregates. Due to the low strength of porous concrete and to avoid

accumulation of cement paste in the bottom of the sample, the water-cement ratio

recommended for porous mix ranges from 0.26 0.30. In order to increase the workability

of the mix without compromising its strength, a super-plasticizer, Spark Superplas 0831,

was added to the mix. Fibrin 23 and alkali-resistant glass (ARG) fiber was used as fiber

reinforcement for flexure. The length of the fiber was 12 mm for fibrin 23 and 50 mm for

ARG and the fiber content of each sample was varied from 1%, 3% and 5% of the total

mass of cement. On the preparation of cylindrical concrete specimen, concrete beam and

porous pavement, a cylindrical mold (4 x 8), a beam mold (4 x 4 x 12) and a

rectangular mold (14 x 14 x 4) were used in pouring the concrete mix. During the

experiment, the mixing of the components was done manually, facilitated properly and

following the mixing proportions of sand, water, gravel, cement, and admixture. However,

careful addition of water was observed in the preparation, since overfed water in the

concrete mix causes it to be permanently unusable. Before the pouring of concrete to the

molds, a slump test in accordance with ASTM C143, was conducted from a portion of the

prepared concrete mix to determine if the sample is adequately workable (slump of 0 to

1).

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 Upon passing the slump test, the rest of the prepared concrete were placed at the

mold with oil/grease applied at the sides of the molds to prevent the sample from sticking

to the mold after drying. Three samples for cylinders, beams and/or porous pavement for

each fiber type (fibrin 23 and alkali-resistant glass), fiber content (0, 1, 3, 5%), mechanical

and physical tests (compression, flexure, and infiltration rate), and curing age (14 and 28

days) were prepared. The poured concrete was tamped 25 times by a tamping rod, at

every layer, for a total of three layers. Then, the top of the beam and cylindrical sample

was flattened using a tamping rod.

TABLE 4. Mix Proportion for Fiber Reinforced Porous Concrete

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3.5. Workability of Concrete

In accordance with ASTM C143, a sample of freshly mixed concrete was placed

and compacted by rodding each of the 3 layers for 25 times in a clean and dampened

mold shaped as the frustum of a cone. After the top layer has been rodded, the excess

material were stroked off the surface of the concrete by means of a rolling motion of the

tamping rod. Concrete from the area surrounding the base of the mold were removed to

preclude interference with the movement of slumping concrete. The mold is raised

carefully in a vertical direction, and the concrete is allowed to subside. The vertical

distance between the original and displaced position of the center of the top surface of

the concrete is measured and reported as the slump of the concrete.

3.6. Curing

Twenty-four (24) hours from the time of preparation, the porous concrete samples

were immersed underwater. Curing period of exactly fourteen (14) days for flexure, and

a curing period of exactly twenty-eight (28) days for compression and infiltration rate is

then started.

3.7. Compressive Strength

In accordance with ASTM C39, the equipment used to test the compressive

strength of cylindrical concrete specimens is the Universal Testing Machine (UTM).

Taking into account compression only, compressive axial load is applied to molded

cylinders at a rate which is within a prescribed range until failure occurs. The loads are

then recorded on the machine where the compressive strength can be determined.
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=

where:

= compressive strength, MPa (psi)

P = compressive load, N (lbs)

A = cross-sectional area of specimen, mm2 (in2)

3.8. Flexural Strength

In accordance with ASTM C78, the equipment used to test the flexural strength of

concrete beam specimens is also the Universal Testing Machine (UTM). Taking into

account the flexure only, three point flexural test is applied, wherein the beam is subjected

to loads at three points (middle and ends). The loads are then recorded on the machine

where the flexural strength can be determined.

3
=
2 2
where:

= flexural strength, MPa (psi)

F = flexural load, N (lbs)

L = length of tested beam, mm (in)

b = width of tested beam, mm (in)

d = depth or thickness of tested beam, mm (in)

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3.9. Infiltration Rate

In accordance with ASTM C1701, an infiltration ring (12 x 2) was temporarily

sealed to the surface of the porous pavement by applying clay around the bottom edge

of the ring. Two lines at a distance of 10 and 15 mm (0.40 and 0.60 in.) from the bottom

of the ring were marked on the inner surface of the ring. After pre-wetting the test location,

a given mass of water, depending on how long the porous concrete can drain the water

during pre-wetting, was poured into the ring and the time for water to infiltrate the porous

pavement is then recorded. Recording will start as soon as the water first touch the porous

pavement and will stop when free water is no longer present on the porous surface.

=
2
where:

I = infiltration rate, mm/hr (in/hr)

K = 4 583 666 000 mm3s / kghr, 126 870 in3s / lbhr

M = mass of infiltrated water, kg (lb)

D = inside diameter of infiltration ring, mm (in)

t = time required for water to infiltrate the concrete, s

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 Chapter 4

PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS, AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA

This chapter comprises the presentation, analysis, and interpretation of the data

and results gathered through proper testing, with and without Alkali-resistant Glass (ARG)

and Fibrin 23 (F23) as an additive component to serve as reinforcement for the

mechanical properties of the porous concrete mix, tested in accordance with ASTM

Standards for Compressive Strength, Flexural Strength, and Infiltration Rate of Porous

Concrete.

4.1. Experimental Specimen

The following designations were used to label the necessary experimental

specimens: denoted as Control for Control Specimen, ARG-1 for Specimen with 1%

ARG, ARG-3 for Specimen with 3% ARG, ARG-5 for Specimen with 5% ARG, F23-1

for Specimen with 1 % F23, F23-3 for Specimen with 3% F23, and F23-5 for Specimen

with 5% F23, with the respective colors as indicated in Table No. 4.

Table 5. Legends of Experimental Specimens

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4.2. Concrete Mix Parameters

From the testing of construction materials prior to the design of porous concrete

mix in accordance with ASTM specifications, the following information is calculated:

Table 6. Summary of Porous Concrete Mix Parameters

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4.3. Design of Concrete Mix

Based on the (1: 0.45: 4.5) design of the porous concrete mix, it is calculated that

approximately 20 kg of cement, 9.5 kg of sand, 84 kg of gravel, 6 kg of water, and 27 mL

of admixture (Spark Superplas 0831) are arranged to prepare 3 concrete cylinders, 3

concrete beams, and 3 pavement samples. 196g (1%), 587g (3%), or 978g (5%) of either

ARG or Fibrin 23 fiber is added to the porous concrete mix.

4.4. General Results

Physical and Mechanical Property Test Results such as Compressive Strength

Test (MPa), Flexural Strength Test (MPa), and Infiltration Rate Test (cm /sec) of

specimens Control, ARG-1, ARG-3, ARG-5, F23-1, F23-3, and F23-5 were

tabulated and interpreted.

Table 7. Property Test Results of Control Specimen

Table 7 shows the data and results of the control specimen with respect to property

testing in accordance with ASTM C39, Standard Test Method for Compressive Strength

of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens, ASTM C78, Standard Test Method for Flexural

Strength of Concrete (Using Simple Beam with Third- Point Loading), and ASTM 1701,

Standard Test Method for Infiltration Rate of In Place Pervious Concrete.

In accordance with DPWH Blue Book Item 311, Portland Cement Concrete

Pavement, the recommended compressive and flexural strength of normal concrete

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pavement is 24.1 MPa and 4.5 MPa, respectively, which means that the Control Mix

attained only 59.7% and 87.1%, respectively. This means that all samples failed to attain

the required strength of Item 311. But, in comparison to the specifications proposed by

Tennis, et al, 2004, for porous concrete, which is 3.5 - 28 MPa for compression, and 1 -

3.8 MPa for flexure, the results more than satisfied the criteria both for compressive and

flexural strengths, as well as with the infiltration rate of 0.203-0.533 cm/sec.

Table 8. Property Test Results of Specimen with 1% ARG

Table 8 shows the data and results of specimen ARG-1 1% ARG with respect

to property testing in accordance with ASTM C39, Standard Test Method for

Compressive Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens, ASTM C78, Standard Test

Method for Flexural Strength of Concrete (Using Simple Beam with Third- Point Loading),

and ASTM 1701, Standard Test Method for Infiltration Rate of In Place Pervious

Concrete.

Contrary to what is expected, in comparison to the Control Mix, the physical and

mechanical properties of the specimen decreased when 1% by weight of cement of ARG

fiber was introduced to the mix, which means that the required compressive and flexural

strength of Item 311 in the DPWH Blue Book was not met. However, it can be noted that

the results still comply with the recommended values by Tennis et al, (2004).

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 Table 9. Property Test Results of Specimen with 3% ARG

Table 9 shows the data and results of specimen ARG-3 3% ARG with respect

to property testing in accordance with ASTM C39, Standard Test Method for

Compressive Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens, ASTM C78, Standard Test

Method for Flexural Strength of Concrete (Using Simple Beam with Third- Point Loading),

and ASTM 1701, Standard Test Method for Infiltration Rate of In Place Pervious

Concrete.

The physical and mechanical properties of the porous concrete mix with 3% ARG

further decreased, which again means that the DPWH Blue Book requirement for

concrete pavement was not met. And although the compressive and flexural strength of

the specimen still falls within the range specified by Tennis for porous concrete pavement,

the infiltration rate is lower than the proposed rate by Tennis et al, (2004).

Table 10. Property Test Results of Specimen with 5% ARG

Table 10 shows the data and results of specimen ARG-5-5% ARG with respect

to property testing in accordance with ASTM C39, Standard Test Method for

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Compressive Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens, ASTM C78, Standard Test

Method for Flexural Strength of Concrete (Using Simple Beam with Third- Point Loading),

and ASTM 1701, Standard Test Method for Infiltration Rate of In Place Pervious

Concrete.

Again, the results were lower than the Control Mix, but in comparison with the

results of the mix with 3% ARG, the compressive strength of the specimen is lower but

the flexural strength and infiltration rate of the specimen are slightly higher. This means

that the increase in the amount of fiber from 3% to 5% results to the fiber acting as a

flexural reinforcement and also is providing interconnections which results to facilitating

the flow of water.

Table 11. Property Test Results of Specimen with 1% Fibrin 23

Table 10 shows the data and results of specimen F23-1 -1% Fibrin 23 with respect to

property testing in accordance with ASTM C39, Standard Test Method for Compressive

Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens, ASTM C78, Standard Test Method for

Flexural Strength of Concrete (Using Simple Beam with Third- Point Loading), and ASTM

1701, Standard Test Method for Infiltration Rate of In Place Pervious Concrete.

Similar to Specimen ARG-1 1% ARG, the physical and mechanical properties

of the specimen decreased compared to the Control Mix, which means that the values

are also below the range specified by Item 311 of the DPWH Blue Book. However, all

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three properties of the sample satisfy the range specified by Tennis et al, (2004) for

porous concrete pavement.

Table 12. Property Test Results of Specimen with 3% Fibrin 23

Table 12 shows the data and results of specimen F23-3 3% Fibrin 23 with

respect to property testing in accordance with ASTM C39, Standard Test Method for

Compressive Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens, ASTM C78, Standard Test

Method for Flexural Strength of Concrete (Using Simple Beam with Third- Point Loading),

and ASTM 1701, Standard Test Method for Infiltration Rate of In Place Pervious

Concrete.

Compared to the Control Specimen, all three properties were lower, which means

that the DPWH-Bluebook specifications were not met. Compared to specimen F23-1

1% Fibrin 23, the compressive strength and infiltration rate decreased while the flexural

strength slightly increased. All three properties satisfy the proposed criteria by Tennis et

al, (2004)

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 Table 13. Property Test Results of Specimen with 5% Fibrin 23

Table 13 shows the data and results of specimen F23-5 5% Fibrin 23, with

respect to property testing in accordance with ASTM C39, Standard Test Method for

Compressive Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens, ASTM C78, Standard Test

Method for Flexural Strength of Concrete (Using Simple Beam with Third- Point Loading),

and ASTM 1701, Standard Test Method for Infiltration Rate of In Place Pervious

Concrete.

Again, all three properties are lower compared to the Control Specimen. In

comparison to specimen F23-3 3% Fibrin 23, the compressive and flexural strengths

are lower, but the infiltration rate is higher. This means that the 5% addition rate of fiber

produces interconnection of voids facilitating flow, however, since the fibers are very

short, it failed to provide flexural reinforcements, unlike the ARG. The three properties of

the specimen F23-5 still passes the specifications set by Tennis for porous concrete

pavement.

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4.5. Analysis and Interpretation of Data

Based on the experimental results gathered, the following analyses are derived:

Figure 2. Evaluation of Compressive Strength Test Results of ARG-reinforced

Porous Concrete

Figure 3. Evaluation of Compressive Strength Test Results of F23-reinforced

Porous Concrete

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 4.5.1. Compressive Strength of Porous Concrete with and without fiber

For the compressive strength of the porous concrete cylinders, a column chart is

adopted to show the strengths attained by specimens with and without fiber, and also

adopted as the graphical basis to clearly show the trend of the compressive strength when

fiber is introduced to the mix. A plot between the compressive strengths versus the fiber

content is presented on both the column charts.

As more fiber, both for Fibrin 23 and ARG, was introduced to the mix, the

compressive strength of the specimens continues to drop. This is because the more fiber

added to the mix, the more volume it occupies, which means that the volume of voids

increases as more fiber is added. And since the formula to compute the capacity of the

specimen due to compressive strength is P = FA, the more area reduced by voids, the

lower the compressive capacity of the specimen. But all specimens, including those with

reduced compressive strength due to the addition of fiber, still falls within the

recommended compressive strength set by Tennis for porous concrete pavement.

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 Figure 4. Evaluation of Flexural Strength Test Results of ARG-reinforced

Porous Concrete

Figure 5. Evaluation of Flexural Strength Test Results of F23-reinforced

Porous Concrete

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 4.5.2. Flexural Strength of Porous Concrete with and without fiber

For the flexural strength of the porous concrete specimens, a column chart is

adopted to show the strengths attain of specimens with and without fiber, and also

adopted as the graphical basis to clearly show the trend of the flexural strength when

more fiber is introduced to the mix. A plot between the flexural strengths versus the fiber

content is presented on both the column charts.

For ARG-reinforced Porous Concrete. The start of the graph, from Specimen

ARG-1 to ARG-3, the trend of flexural strength is similar to the trend of the compressive

strength due to the same reason. As more fiber was introduced to the mix, the strength

of the specimen continues to drop, due to the accumulation of more voids from the

addition of more fibers. But the trend goes upward when the percent of fiber added was

5%, this is because the fiber are now starting to be interconnected with each other, they

are starting to reinforced the porous concrete mix, unlike in the 1% and 3% wherein the

fiber only contributes to the void content of the specimen. This trend became possible

because the mix is a porous concrete mix, not a regular concrete mix. Unlike in normal

concrete mix, porous concrete mix has little to no sand that could have served as mortar

that will bind the fiber together with the concrete. But all specimens, including those that

decreases due to the addition of ARG fiber, still falls within the recommended flexural

strength set by Tennis for porous concrete pavement.

For Fibrin 23-reinforced Porous Concrete. The trend continues to go down even

when fiber content is 5%. This is due to the difference in length of ARG fiber and Fibrin

23 fiber. Fibrin 23 is a lot shorter (12 mm) than ARG fiber (50 mm), resulting for the Fibrin

23 fiber to have a harder time to interconnect with each other.

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 Figure 6. Evaluation of Infiltration Rate Test Results of ARG-reinforced

Porous Concrete

Figure 7. Evaluation of Infiltration Rate Test Results of F23-reinforced

Porous Concrete

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 4.5.3. Infiltration Rate of Porous Concrete with and without fiber

For the infiltration rate of the porous concrete specimens, a column chart is

adopted to show the strengths attain of specimens with and without fiber, and also

adopted as the graphical basis to clearly show the trend of the infiltration rate when more

fiber is introduced to the mix. A plot between the infiltration rates versus the fiber content

is presented on both the column charts.

For ARG-reinforced Porous Concrete. The start of the graph, from Specimen ARG-

1 to ARG-3, the trend of infiltration rate is similar to the trend of the compressive and

flexural strength. If strength decreases when more voids are present in the mix, it is not

necessarily the same for the infiltration rate. This is because synthetic fiber is an

impermeable material, it only allows water to flow above it. Therefore, instead of just

percolating to the specimen, the water is blocked by the synthetic fibers, thus slowing the

rate of water to infiltrate to the specimen. But similar in flexural strength, the trend goes

upward when the percent of fiber added was 5%, this is because the impermeable layers

which are the fibers, are now starting to connect with each other, thus bridging the path

of water. But all specimens, except specimen ARG-3, falls within the recommended

infiltration rate set by Tennis for porous concrete pavement.

For Fibrin 23-reinforced Porous Concrete. The trend is similar to the ARG-

reinforced Porous Concrete. The only difference is that the infiltration rates of the Fibrin

23-reinforced have higher value than ARG-reinforced. This is due to the thinner and

shorter length of Fibrin 23, allowing water to flow easier and reduce ponding of water

compare to ARG.

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 CHAPTER 5

Summary of Findings, Conclusions and Recommendations

This chapter evaluates the properties of Fibrin 23 reinforced porous concrete and

ARG fiber reinforced porous concrete in accordance with the DPWH Standards and

Specifications (Blue Book), ASTM C39, C78 and C1701 to the general procedures of

different property testing of materials. This chapter assesses whether the Fibrin 23 and

Alkali- resistant Glass Fiber as an additive will give a substantial contribution acting as

reinforcement to the Porous Concrete. This chapter also covers the findings, conclusions

and recommendations derived from this study

5.1 Summary of Findings

According to the data and results tabulated in Chapter 4:

5.1.1 Mechanical Property Test Results

a. Flexural Strength: The highest Flexural Strength among the Fibrin 23 reinforced

porous concrete was obtained in Specimen F23-1 1%, while among the ARG

fiber reinforced porous concrete, Specimen ARG-5 5% registered the highest

Flexural Strength. Comparing the two, Specimen ARG-5 (with 5% ARG) showed

higher Flexural Strength, but is also lower than the Control Specimen.

b. Compressive Strength: The highest Compressive Strength among the Fibrin 23

reinforced porous concrete was obtained in Specimen F23-1 1%, while among

the ARG fiber reinforced porous concrete, Specimen ARG-1 1% also registered

the highest Compressive Strength. Overall, Specimen F23-1 (with 1% Fibrin 23)

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 was found to have the highest Compressive Strength. Again, the values are lower

compared to the Control Specimen.

5.1.2 Physical Property Test Results

a. Void Content: The mix proportion adopted (1: 0.45: 4.05) produced an

average void content, as determined in accordance to ASTM C 1688, of

21.91%. This value is within the specified limits for porous concrete which is

15-25%.

b. Permeability: The highest porosity measured in terms of infiltration rate among

the Fibrin 23 reinforced porous concrete was obtained in Specimen F23-5

5% while among the ARG fiber reinforced porous concrete, was Specimen

ARG-5 5% also. Overall, Specimen F23-5 (with 5% Fibrin 23) was found to

be the highest in permeability in relation to Infiltration Rate. However, both

values are lower compared to the Control Specimen.

5.2. Conclusions

The following are the conclusions in this research study on the Effects of Fibrin 23 and

Alkali-Resistant Glass Fibers as Reinforcement in Porous Concrete.

a. Control Mix (No fiber reinforcement)

The compressive and flexural strength of the porous concrete mix without fibers

was 14.4 MPa and 3.9 MPa, respectively. This is only 59.7% and 87.1%, of the

DPWH Blue Book requirements for Portland Cement Concrete Pavement (Item

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 311) recommending a compressive and flexural strength for normal concrete

pavement of 24.1 MPa and 4.5 MPa, respectively. However, in comparison to the

specifications proposed by Tennis et al, 2004, for porous concrete, which is 3.5 to

28 MPa for compression, and 1 to 3.8 MPa for flexure, the results more than

satisfied the criteria both for compressive and flexural strengths, as well as with

the infiltration rate criteria of 0.203-0.533 cm/sec.

b. Fibrin 23- Reinforced Porous Concrete

As more fiber was introduced to the mix, the compressive strength of the

specimens continue to decrease. This is because the addition of fibers add more

voids in the mix, resulting to a smaller effective cross-sectional area to resist

compression. Similarly, the flexural strength continues to decrease with increasing

fiber content since the length of the fibers (12 mm) is not sufficient to provide

flexural reinforcement. For the infiltration rate, there was a decrease with the

addition of fiber until 3%, but slightly increased at 5%, implying that a path for water

was established at this addition rate of fiber.

c. ARG-Reinforced Porous Concrete

As more fiber was introduced to the mix, the compressive strength of the

specimens continue to decrease. This is because the addition of fibers add more

voids in the mix, resulting to a smaller effective cross-sectional area to resist

compression. Similarly, the flexural strength decreases with the increasing addition

of fiber from 1% to 3%, but there was an increase at the addition of 5%, which

implies that flexural reinforcement is provided at this rate. For the infiltration rate,

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 there was a decrease with the addition of fiber until 3%, but slightly increased at

5%, implying that a path for water was established at this addition rate of fiber,

similar to the effect of Fibrin 23.

d. Comparison between Fibrin 23 and ARG

Comparing the data gathered, the Compressive and Flexural strength of ARG-

reinforced porous concrete are slightly higher than those of the Fibrin 23-reinforced

counterparts. For the infiltration rate, however, the opposite is true.

5.2.1 Addition of ARG fibers is considered effective in terms of Permeability and Flexure

than Fibrin 23 but addition of Fibrin 23 is considered effective in terms of

Compression than ARG fibers.

5.2.2 Addition of fibers significantly reduced the cracking and shrinkage of the porous

concrete.

5.2.3 Overall, the addition of fibers up to 5% fiber content in the porous concrete reduced

its Flexural Strength Capacity, Compressive Strength Capacity and Permeability

but still passing the criteria for porous concrete pavement according to Tennis, et

al. However, it did not meet the requirements set by the DPWH Standards and

Specifications Item 311 for Portland Cement Concrete Pavement.

5.3 Recommendations

1. The analysis of the Fiber- reinforced porous concrete has not yet taken into

account the crack resistance property of the specimen. The researchers have

observed the minimized cracking and deflection during flexural strength test. From

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 these consequences, the crack resistance of fiber reinforced porous concrete

might need to be considered for future studies.

2. The method of mixing can affect the quality of porous concrete. It is suggested and

recommended that the future researchers use mechanical method by concrete

mixers instead of using manual method.

3. The test results for the Infiltration Rate Test and Flexural Strength test are based

as per ASTM C 1701 and C 78. The trend of results from the graph suggests that

higher fiber content than 5% may lead to higher infiltration rate or permeability and

flexural strength capacity. It is recommended for future studies involving fiber

reinforced porous concrete using Fibrin 23 or ARG fibers to use higher than 5%

fiber content in order to see if it would exhibit higher permeability and flexural

strength.

4. The future researchers may consider the use other synthetic fibers for study

involving fiber reinforced porous concrete to observe whether the Fibrin 23, ARG

or other synthetic fibers has good and optimal effects as an additive and

reinforcement in porous concrete.

5. The calculated void content of the control sample was 21.91%, which is still in the

upper range of the recommended void content of porous concrete pavement,

15-25%. The researchers suggest to add more sand in the design mix to increase

the mechanical properties of the specimens while retaining the minimum

recommended void content (15%) for porous concrete pavement.

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