Compressive and split tensile strength of dispersed basalt fiber lightweight expanded clay concrete

The strength of construction material is influential on the durability and stability of the structure. Since the mechanical properties determine their usage in construction. This research paper presents experimental studies and results of the split tensile strength (TS) and compressive strength (f’ c) of lightweight expanded clay concrete (LECC) reinforced by blending dispersed chopped basalt fiber (BF) in the LECC . The chopped BF has a diameter of 15 micrometers and 20 mm length; mixed with concrete in the ratio of 0%, 0.45%, 0.9%, 1.2%, and 1.6% by weight. Five (5) sample groups were tested including a control concrete mixture without BF. Each sample group has nine (9) specimen cubes, and the cube dimension is (100 mm x 100mm x 100mm). The specimens were subjected to split tensile test and compression test at 7, 14, and 28-day curing period. The split tensile and compressive strength improved significantly, which is due to the incorperation of chopped BF in the LECC. More so, the blending of BF into the concrete mixture influenced the porosity index of the concrete. © 2021, International Association of Engineers. All rights reserved.