Assessing the Use of Polyester Fibers Along With Foundry Sand As Reinforcement in Making of Concrete Pavers
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Date
2025-04-17
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Uganda Christian University
Abstract
Concrete pavers, made from a blend of cement, gravel, and sand, are popular for their affordability and adaptability in outdoor settings. Yet, they frequently show limited structural resilience and a tendency to split when subjected to substantial weight. This study explores improving paver effectiveness by adding polyester fiber and foundry sand as strengthening elements, targeting better robustness and longevity without sacrificing eco-friendliness. Polyester fiber was acquired from nearby vendors and trimmed to set sizes, while foundry sand, a residue from metal casting, was collected from aluminum production sites. Tests took place at Makerere University’s Geology and Petroleum Studies Department, using gravel from Nsuube Stone Quarry in Mukono District. The concrete blend included polyester fiber at different levels (0.10%, 0.16%, and 0.20% by volume), with foundry sand fully replacing natural sand. Evaluations of compressive strength, bending resistance, and durability—covering wear resistance, chloride penetration, and water uptake—were conducted on paver samples (200 x 100 x 63 mm) after 7, 14, and 28 days of curing. Findings showed peak results at 0.16% fiber, with average compressive strength of 43.2 MPa and bending strength of 6-7 MPa at 28 days, plus enhanced durability measures. Focused on the Matuuga- Semuto-Kapeeka road example, this work reveals that pairing polyester fiber with foundry sand markedly boosts paver mechanical traits and lifespan, delivering an eco-conscious option with low environmental harm.
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Undergraduate