An Experimental Study on the Mechanical Properties of Concrete by Using Human Hair Fiber as Reinforcement

Abstract

The growing demand for sustainable construction materials has spurred an exploration into alternative reinforcements for concrete. In recent years, human hair fibers have emerged as a promising eco-friendly option due to their abundance, cost-effectiveness, and impressive mechanical properties. Due to this study, various sources are tapped to acquire human hair fibers, which are then subjected to a series of tests to determine their physical and mechanical attributes, including tensile strength, elasticity, and aspect ratio. Following this, concrete samples are carefully prepared, with traditional coarse aggregate being partially replaced by varying volumes of human hair fibers. A comprehensive set of experiments is carried out to assess both the initial and solidified properties of the resulting hair fiber-reinforced concrete (HFRC). The mechanical features of HFRC, such as compressive strength, flexural strength, and splitting tensile strength, are scrutinized and compared to those of standard concrete. An extensive investigation into how the volume of hair fibers influences these properties is conducted, pinpointing the optimal fiber dosage. Additionally, a microstructural analysis of HFRC is conducted using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to shed light on the connection between the hair fibers and the cementitious matrix. The research findings confirm that including human hair fibers enhances the mechanical performance of concrete. The results emphasize improved tensile strength, ductility, and resistance to cracking in HFRC when compared to traditional concrete. Furthermore, the study delves into the economic and environmental benefits of using human hair fibers as a reinforcing material. The significance of this study lies in its substantial contribution to the field of sustainable construction materials by harnessing a renewable and readily available resource. The implications of these findings for the construction industry are profound, offering an innovative way to improve the mechanical properties of concrete while simultaneously reducing its environmental impact.