|
Abstract
|
a series of unconfined compressive strength (UCS) tests were carried out to evaluate the effect of fiber reinforcement on the compressive strength and ductility properties of cemented sand. In this regard, poorly graded sand was cemented using 2, 4, 6, and 8 percent cement and reinforced with polypropylene (PP) fibers at three different fiber ratios (0, 0.5, and 1 percent). Specimens were compacted to 50 and 70 percent relative density and were cured for three and seven days. The results showed that the UCS of PP specimens increased with increasing fiber content. The UCS development rate in specimens with 0.5 and 1% fiber content and 2 and 4% cement content was almost twice as high as specimens with 6 and 8% cement content at both 50 and 70% relative density. For up to approximately 4% cement content, PP fiber inclusion yielded positive results, however the PP fiber inclusion in specimens with more than 4% cement content was ineffective. Furthermore, the axial strain of cemented sand increased with increasing content of PP fibers and in cases where the fiber ratio was constant, the peak strains were almost independent of the cement content ratio.
|