Comparative Study of Reinforced Concrete Using Human Hair and Aluminum Fibres

Abstract

This study investigates the efficacy of human hair and aluminum fibres as reinforcements in concrete, analyzing their impact on compressive, flexural, and tensile strengths. Different fibre percentages (0%, 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5% by weight of cement) are systematically incorporated into concrete mixtures. Compressive strength tests on cubes, flexural strength assessments on beams, and tensile strength evaluations on cylinders reveal insights into the material's load-bearing, bending, and stretching capacities. Human hair-reinforced concrete showed significant improvements in compressive strength. Results indicate a gradual strength increase in Human Hair Fibre Reinforced Concrete (HHFRC) up to an optimal percentage. At the same time, Aluminum Fibre Reinforced Concrete (AFRC) shows significant enhancement in higher fibre content. AFRC's superior mechanical properties stem from aluminum fibres high tensile strength and stiffness, enhancing bond formation and resulting in denser, stronger concrete. These findings inform the selection of fibre reinforcement for concrete structures tailored to specific project needs.