STRENGTH AND SUSTAINABLE EVALUATION IN CONCRETE USING SILICA FUMES AND COIR FIBRES

Supervisor:

Asst.Prof. MANASA MUKUNDAN

Team Members

AMSHITH RETHEESH 
MRIDUL MURALI 
HIBA NOUSHAD 
ANAMIKA N 

Description

The sustainable construction practices have focused on incorporating alternative materials into
concrete to reduce environmental impact while maintaining or enhancing performance. This study
investigates the sustainability and strength evaluation of concrete using coir fiber and silica fume,

aiming to compare their effects on mechanical and durability properties. Coir fiber, a natural by-
product from coconut husk, is introduced to improve the toughness, ductility, and crack resistance

of concrete, contributing to a more energy-absorbing and flexible composite. In contrast, silica
fume, an industrial by-product from silicon metal production, serves as a highly reactive
pozzolanic material that refines the concrete microstructure, enhances compressive strength, and
significantly reduces permeability. The experimental program involves preparing mixes with
varying percentages of coir fiber and silica fume to determine their optimum content and
performance characteristics.

Keywords: Calcium silicate hydrate, Split tensile strength, Sustainable additives, Pozzolanic
reaction, Silica fume, Coir fibers, Eco-efficiency, CO2 emission, Sustainable concrete