Evaluation of concrete containing waste plastic shredded fibers: Ductility properties

Application of concrete for pavement and barrier purposes demands ample energy absorption capacity and impact resistance characteristics. These attributes were investigated for concrete produced by using waste plastic shredded fibers (WPSF), which were obtained by shredding waste plastic bags. The WPSF were incorporated in concrete at an amount of 0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, 3.0, and 5.0% by weight of concrete. The strength (compressive and impact), and the ability to absorb the energy of concrete samples incorporating WPSF were evaluated. Additionally, empirical relations were also developed between WPSF fraction and compressive strength; WPSF fraction and impact energy for the first crack; WPSF fraction and impact energy for final failure; and WPSF fraction and energy absorption capacity using regression analysis method. The outcomes of the tests showed that there was a systematic decline in compressive strength of concrete on the inclusion of WPSF. However, superior energy absorption capacity and higher resistance to impact of concrete specimens were observed on the inclusion of WPSF. It was thus concluded that WPSF could be incorporated in concrete up to certain level for producing sustainable concrete pavement and barrier.