Experimental investigation on the compressive strength of jute fiber–reinforced concrete (JFRC)

Abstract

This study investigates the mechanical performance and sustainability potential of jute fiber–reinforced concrete (JFRC) incorporating a fixed 3% fiber content introduced through partial replacement of concrete constituents. Unlike conventional studies that treat fibers as additives, this research evaluates their effect when used as replacement materials for cement, fine aggregate, and coarse aggregate. Four mix configurations were considered: control mix (N), cement replacement (J1), sand replacement (J2), and coarse aggregate replacement (J3). Experimental tests were conducted on 150 × 150 × 150 mm cubes at 7 and 28 days in accordance with ASTM standards . The growing demand for sustainable construction materials has encouraged the use of natural fibers in cementitious composites. In this study, jute fibers were incorporated into concrete, and their effects on compressive strength, density, and failure behavior were experimentally evaluated using 150 × 150 × 150 mm cubes tested at 7 and 28 days in accordance with ASTM C39 . Results show that jute fiber reduces unit weight by approximately 4–8% due to its low density and increased internal void formation. Compressive strength decreased at both ages, with the most significant reduction observed in J1 (≈33%), while J2 and J3 showed moderate reductions of about 10–14% at 28 days. Despite this reduction, all mixes achieved acceptable strength development, with improved crack resistance and post-cracking ductility compared to conventional concrete. Among the modified mixes, sand replacement (J2) exhibited the best balance between strength retention and ductility, followed by coarse aggregate replacement (J3), while cement replacement (J1) showed the weakest performance due to matrix disruption. Overall, the findings indicate that jute fiber–reinforced concrete is suitable for sustainable construction applications where reduced self-weight, improved toughness, and crack control are prioritized over maximum compressive strength.