Authors: Aniket Prakash Lohar, Prof. Dr .R .S. Karale
Abstract: Concrete exhibits high compressive strength but low tensile capacity, leading to cracking and brittle failure. This study investigates the effect of basalt chopped fibers on the compressive strength of M40 grade concrete. Concrete mixes with varying fiber contents were prepared, cast, and cured under standard conditions, and tested at 7, 14, and 28 days as per Indian Standards. Results show that the inclusion of basalt fibers improves compressive strength up to an optimum dosage, beyond which strength slightly decreases due to reduced workability and fiber clustering. Fiber-reinforced concrete also exhibited better crack resistance and ductile behavior. The study concludes that basalt chopped fibers are an effective and sustainable reinforcement material for enhancing the performance and durability of high-strength concrete.
International Journal of Science, Engineering and Technology