Valorization of recycled fibers in high-performance concrete: An experimental and sustainable approach
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Within the framework of sustainable development in the construction sector, the valorization of industrial waste in concrete formulation has emerged as a strategic approach to reducing production costs while minimizing environmental impact. This research presents a comparative study investigating the effects of waste plastic fibers derived from recycled PET strapping and steel fibers recovered from tire waste on the properties of high-performance concrete. To achieve this objective, the physical, mechanical, and durability properties of high-performance concrete mixtures incorporating 0.5% and 1% of recycled strapping fibers and recycled steel fibers were examined and compared with those of high-performance concrete containing conventional steel fibers. The experimental results revealed that the incorporation of recycled steel fibers progressively decreased the workability of high-performance concrete, whereas recycled strapping fibers enhanced it. Moreover, fiber-reinforced high-performance concrete exhibited higher compressive and flexural strengths, particularly when conventional steel fibers and recycled steel fibers were used, while recycled strapping fibers had an insignificant effect on flexural strength. Specifically, the compressive strength increased by 22.40%, 21.85%, and 7.63% for high-performance concrete incorporating steel fibers, recycled steel fibers, and recycled strapping fibers, respectively. The findings also indicated that recycled fiber incorporation reduced drying shrinkage of high-performance concrete. However, the resistance to acid attacks was reduced.
DOI: 10.5937/jaes0-66315
Authors: Rachid Kebout, Rachid Djebien, Riad Derabla
Institution: University of Skikda
Language: English
Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $377
OpenAlex ID: W7204474669