Concrete Design Mix: Bamboo Vulgaris and Cocos

Nucifera Fibers as Admixtures in Concrete for Low-

rise Residential Housing in the Philippines

by

John Ronnel A. Erese

Carla Jean D. Gaudan
Julienne U. Jorge

A Thesis Submitted to the School of Civil, Environmental and Geological Engineering in Partial
Fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of
Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

Mapùa University
February 2022

John Mark G. Payawal

Adviser

Note: Waiting for copy of the signed

conformity of revisions form.
 APPROVAL SHEET

This is to certify that we have supervised the preparation of and read the thesis paper prepared by
John Ronnel A. Erese, Carla Jean D. Gaudan, and Julienne U. Jorge entitled "Concrete
Design Mix: Bamboo Vulgaris and Cocos Nucifera Fibers as Admixtures in Concrete for
Low-rise Residential Housing in the Philippines" and that the said paper has been submitted
for final examination by Oral Examination Committee

______________________
Engr. John Mark Payawal
Thesis Adviser

As members of the Oral Examination Committee, we certify that we have examined this paper and
hereby recommend that it be accepted as fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree in Bachelor
of Science in Civil Engineering.

______________________ ______________________
Dr. Bernard S. Villaverde Engr. Charmaine Czeninia O. Reguindin
Panel Member Panel Member
______________________
Engr. Cris Edward Monjardin
Research Coordinator

This thesis paper is hereby approved and accepted by the School of CEGE as a fulfillment of the
thesis requirements for the Degree in Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering.

______________________
Dr. Francis Aldrine A. Uy
Dean, School of CEGE

ii
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The researchers would like to recognize and express their deepest gratitude and sincere

appreciation to the following individuals that have given their utmost support, patience, and

guidance throughout the journey in the completion of the paper.

To the TERMS and Concrete and Material Testing Laboratory INC., for allowing to utilize

their Universal Testing Machine (UTM) to test the compressive strength of the concrete cylinder

samples and assist the researchers throughout the experimental process. Additionally, for always

being available for testing and providing the researchers with the data they need for the study.

To our Thesis Adviser, Engr. John Mark G. Payawal, for accepting the researchers as

advisees and being a significant supervisor and contributor to the paper. Also, he shared his

wisdom and knowledge in providing solutions for the paper, which encouraged the researchers to

finish the study.

To our Thesis Instructor, Engr. Cris Edward Monjardin, for his guidance and patience,

helped complete the study by expertly explaining and answering various inquiries of the

researchers; without him, this thesis would not be possible.

To our Panelists, Dr. Bernard S. Villaverde, Engr. Yoshiaki C. Mikami, and Engr.

Charmaine Czeninia O. Reguindin, for their approval and imparting exceptional wisdom in the

correction of the paper. Their discernment led the paper to success.

To the Rosslance Construction and Development, for lending the structural plan for the 2-

Storey Duplex and supporting the researchers throughout the completion of the paper.

iii
 To our Family and Friends, for giving the researchers ample of understanding they need

to complete the study. Their words of encouragement and insights regarding the paper helped

formulate the study's outline.

Lastly, to Almight God, for His unwavering blessing and guidance throughout the paper.

He bestowed the researchers the strength, knowledge, and safety to complete the paper.

iv
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
TITLE PAGE ... i
APPROVAL SHEET ... ii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ......... iii
TABLE OF CONTENTS ..... v
LIST OF TABLES ... . viii
LIST OF FIGURES .......... ix
ABSTRACT ... 1
Chapter 1: THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND 2
Background of the Study 2
Statement of the Problem ... 5
Objectives of the Study ... 6
Research Hypothesis ....... 7
Scope and Limitations . 7
Significant of the Study .... 8
Chapter 2: REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE ......... 9
Concrete ........... 9
Components of Concrete 10
Cement ................. 10
Water ... 12
Aggregates ... 12
Admixtures .. 13
Bamboo 13
Bamboo fiber and its properties .. 14
Common Bamboo Species for Construction and Its Properties ......... 15
Bamboo fiber as Admixture ... 21
Coconut .. 24
Coconut Fiber and its Properties ... 24
Coconut fiber as Admixture ... 25
Universal Testing Machine (UTM) 26
Justification and Synthesis ... 27

v
Theoretical Framework ... 28
Conceptual Framework ... 30
Chapter 3: METHODOLOGY 31
Phase 1: Review of existing Related Literature and Study . 31
Phase 2: Review of Standard Specification 32
Phase 3.1: Gathering of Materials and Equipment .. 32
Phase 3.2: Extraction of bamboo fiber and coconut fiber ... 34
Phase 4: Generating Concrete Design Mixture ... 35
Phase 5: Developing Concrete Cylinders ... 37
Phase 6: Curing of Concrete Cylinder . 38
Phase 7: Testing of Controlled and Treated Concrete Cylinder Samples .. 39
Phase 8: Data Interpretation and Analysis .. 40
Research Design .. 41
Research Setting .............. 41
Data Gathering Procedures .............. 42
Data Gathering Instruments . 42
Statistical Treatment ................ 43
Chapter 4: RESULTS AND DISCUSSION ... 44
One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA Test) . 48
Cost Benefit Analysis .. 52
Chapter 5: CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS .. 55
Conclusions . 55
Recommendations 57
BIBLIOGRAPHY .. 58
APPENDIX A . 68
APPENDIX B . 69
APPENDIX C . 70
APPENDIX D . 75
APPENDIX E . 76
APPENDIX F . 77
APPENDIX G . 78

vi
APPENDIX H . 79

vii
 LIST OF TABLES
Table 3.1 Material .. 33
Table 3.2 Equipment .. 33
Table 3.3 Controlled Group ... 36
Table 3.4 Treated Sample .. 36
Table 4.1 Variation of Samples . 44
Table 4.2 Compressive Strength of Sample Test Report (Day 3) . 45
Table 4.3. Compressive Strength of Sample Test Report (Day 7) 46
Table 4.4. Compressive Strength of Sample Test Report (Day 14) . 47
Table 4.5. Anova data of Bamboo and Coconut husk fiber admixture . 48
Table 4.6. Anova results for admixture 48
Table 4.7 Curing Time from ANOVA data .. 50
Table 4.8. Anova results from Curing Time . 50
Table 4.9 Detailed Estimation for 2 Storey Duplex ... 52

viii
 LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 2.1. Types of Cement . 11
Figure 2.2. Conceptual Framework ... 30
Figure 3.1 Air Drying of Fiber .. 34
Figure 3.2 Bamboo and Coconut husk fiber . 35
Figure 3.3 Mixture of 1:2:4 with bamboo and coconut fibers .. 37
Figure 3.4 Adding of Cement Mixture to the Molder .. 38
Figure 3.5 Curing of Concrete Cylinders ... 39
Figure 4.1 Compressive Strength per Bamboo and Coconut Admixture .. 49
Figure 4.2 Compressive Strength per Curing Time .. 51
Figure 4.3 Total Estimation of Concrete Mixture of Structural Works . 53

ix
 ABSTRACT
This research investigates the effects of the addition of Bamboo Vulgaris and Cocus
Nucifera as admixtures to determine the overall strength of the concrete mix that will be utilized
in low-rise residential housing. The study also examines the capability of these admixtures to be
utilized in the construction industry economically since these are abundant in the environment,
making them easy to obtain and, at the same time, lessening their contribution as waste. The
researchers have included four samples with different variations to identify the admixtures' effect:
a standard concrete mix, a concrete mix with 0.5% coconut and bamboo admixture, 1% coconut
and bamboo admixture, and 1.5% coconut and bamboo admixture. Each variation was cured for
three, seven, and fourteen days. The samples underwent the Universal Testing Machine (UTM) to
obtain the necessary data to evaluate and formulate viable results. The test result suggests no
significant effect in adding bamboo and coconut admixtures.

Keywords: Bamboo fibers, Coconut fibers, UTM, admixtures, concrete

1
 CHAPTER 1

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Chapter 1 is composed of the background of the study, conceptual framework, statement

of the problem, the objective of the study, research hypotheses, scope and limitations, and

significance of the research.

Background of the study

Centuries ago, industrialization flourished and developed globally with different

innovations and technological advancements. The urge for continuous developments has led to

more opportunities to achieve sustainability. Recently, sustainability movements have developed

because of resource constraints, resulting in many challenges. Furthermore, by improving the

quality of people's homes, the construction industry is a significant contributor to meeting society's

requirements (Alwan et al., 2017; Doan et al., 2017; Hwang et al., 2017). Despite this, the sector

produces up to 65 percent of waste materials disposed of in landfills and contributes 35 percent of

global CO2 emissions (Ahmad et al., 2021). Furthermore, the construction industry and its related

processes produce large volumes of hazardous emissions, accounting for almost 30% of worldwide

greenhouse gas emissions (Escamilla et al., 2016).

The growing trends in the construction industry in the Philippines have long become

dependent on conventional construction materials such as steel, wood/timber, and concrete,

resulting in the exploitation of the environment. The production of such materials emits Carbon

Dioxide (CO2), which causes environmental degradation in which the concrete production

produces five percent (5%) of global emission, and 1.83 tons of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) is emitted

from steel production. Sustainable ways of building homes are regulated, and policies are

2
implemented to improve the quality and environmental behavior of the structure and to lessen the

consumption of conventional materials. Sustainable or green building is adopted in the Philippines.

In construction, concrete is one of the most widely used materials. It is a composite material

composed of cement, coarse aggregates, fine aggregates, and water. Ordinary Portland Cement

(OPC) is a commonly used binder for concrete mixing. However, concrete is widely used in the

construction industry, and is still susceptible to crack under tensile stress induced by external

loading, temperature gradients, shrinkage, and expansive reactions. Thus, cracks threaten the

structures' strength, functionality, and durability. The country's location is in the Pacific Ring of

Fire, which is susceptible to major natural disasters such as typhoons, earthquakes, volcanic

eruptions, landslides, flooding, and drought. These natural phenomena are

destructive because they can wipe out a community, infrastructures, and even people's lives. So,

countermeasures against cracking are generally recommended to expand the service life of

concrete structures even before the disaster. Extra elements, known as admixtures, are commonly

utilized to improve the qualities of fresh and hardened concrete. Water-reducing admixtures, for

example, are frequently used to improve the workability of fresh concrete without increasing its

water content, preserving the hardened concrete's strength and durability.

Nowadays, there is a lot of interest in creating technologies that will allow natural fiber

materials to be used in cement composites. Natural fibers are found in relatively high numbers

worldwide, and usually, developing countries, like the Philippines, generate the most natural

vegetable fibers. Natural fibers have been employed for thousands of years to reinforce non-

organic materials. Straw for bricks, mud for poles, and bamboo plaster are just a few examples.

Fibers from coconut, Bamboo, wood cellulose, wool or chips, bark, leaves, seeds, and fruits have

been employed in sand-based cement products this century. Natural fibers are an advantage

3
because the materials are readily available, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly (Ramli et

al., 2014).

According to Zhang (2011), the agricultural industry in the Philippines, which accounts for

around one-seventh of the country's gross domestic product (GDP), is a significant component of

the country's large landmass, which includes over seven thousand six hundred and forty-one

(7,641) islands. Crops may be cultivated all year in the country's rich and fertile soils, and the

agricultural sector employs about a third of the workforce. The main agricultural products are

sugarcane, rice, coconuts, bananas, corn (maize), and pineapples. The Philippines is one of the

world's largest producers of coconuts - known as the Tree of Life because of its versatility. Every

part of the tree can be used in many ways. In the construction field, husk or coconut fibers have

been tested to improve the strength of concrete. The use of coconut fibers in manufacturing

lightweight or regular concrete for use in concrete structures has seen a lot of potential (Ramli et

al., 2014).

On the other hand, one sustainable material used in construction is Bamboo. The

Philippines is an abundant source of Bamboo because Bamboo thrives in tropical areas. Bamboos

are giant woody grass that belongs to a group of perennial grasses in the grass family Poaceae and

is well known for its adaptability with a short development life cycle and exceptionally rapid

growth (Li & He, 2019). Bamboos have been intertwined with the Philippines' environment,

economy, and culture. They play a significant role in the lives of the Filipino people from

construction, furniture and handicraft manufacture, food, cooking, etc., which unveils those

bamboos that have been widely used in the country. Bamboo's structural qualities are a structural

material in earthquake architecture and are one of the most robust construction materials due

to their high tensile strength. Abdul Khalil et al. (2012) also provided an overview of the use of

4
bamboo fiber, concluding that natural fibers such as Bamboo can be used as Biocomposites.

Moreover, it can be integrated into sustainable, eco-friendly, and well-designed industrial

products, reducing or replacing the dominance of petroleum-based products in the future.

The main goal of this study is to investigate the strength of the concrete with bamboo and

coconut fibers using the Universal Testing Machine (UTM) as an alternative to the conventional

concrete mixture used in construction for low-rise residential buildings. The Universal Testing

Machine will test the compressive strength of the concrete by compressing the concrete. Under the

American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standard, the results will be used to analyze

the admixtures containing bamboo and coconut fibers.

Statement of the Problem

The desire for industrial growth grew as the population grew. The building industry

developed more residential homes and structures, resulting in the continued usage of raw and

traditional construction materials. Consequently, sustainability movements have developed

because of resource constraints. The continuous usage of non-sustainable materials may lead to

scarce construction materials in the future since they are non-renewable. Although one of the most

frequently used building materials, concrete is still subject to cracks that compromise its strength.

In this paper, the researchers focused on investigating sustainable materials used as an admixture

in concrete production. The goal is to find a natural admixture that can replace the traditional

admixtures used in low-rise residential construction without compromising the concrete's strength.

5
Objective of the Study
The primary aim of this study is to investigate the strength of concrete with admixtures

such as bamboo and coconut fibers using a Universal Testing Machine (UTM) under compressive

stress. Additionally, the researchers would focus on the following:

To identify the advantages and disadvantages of using bamboo and coconut fibers in

concrete.

To design mix proportioning of cement, aggregates, and admixtures that utilize the

maximum strength of concrete to comply with American Society for Testing and Materials

(ASTM) standards for low-rise residential buildings.

To test the differences between the strength of ordinary concrete mix and concrete with

bamboo and coconut fibers as an admixture.

To compare the cost-benefit analysis of ordinary concrete mix and concrete with bamboo

and coconut fibers as an admixture.

To evaluate the data gathered from the Universal Testing Method (UTM) using One-way

Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and provide recommendations and assumptions.

6
Research Hypothesis

The study was made to investigate the viability of using bamboo and coconut fibers as an

admixture in concrete without compromising the ASTM Standard for low-rise residential

buildings.

Null Hypothesis: There is no significant difference between conventional concrete and

concrete with bamboo and coconut fibers admixtures.

Alternative Hypothesis: There is a significant difference between conventional concrete

and concrete with bamboo and coconut fibers admixtures.

Scope and Limitations

This study is primarily focused on analyzing the compressive strength of concrete with

bamboo and coconut fibers as an admixture for low-rise residential buildings. The type of bamboo

utilized was Bambusa vulgaris, and correspondingly, the type of coconut used was Macapuno

Coconut. Given that the study was conducted during the pandemic, the study was limited due to

constraints. Thus, the parameter of admixtures was restricted to 0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5% and the

curing age to three days, seven days, and fourteen days. Additionally, the experimentation of the

study was conducted in private property to control the experimentation environment, and the

controlled and treated concrete cylinders were analyzed using the Universal Testing Machine

(UTM). The test assisted the evaluation of the strength of the concrete with admixtures under

different design mix proportions. To further support the study, the researchers reviewed the

secondary sources to understand and assess the properties of bamboo and coconut fibers.

7
Significance of the Study

This study would focus on the effectivity analysis of bamboo and coconut fibers as an

admixture to the standard design mix of concrete for low-rise residential buildings used in

construction in the Philippines. Hence, it would be a significant contribution to the following:

Philippine Economy. The Philippines is known for the abundant production of bamboo and

coconut; thus, constant utilization of such materials in construction will help boost the country's

economy, especially in the agriculture industry, which will open opportunities for employment for

people.

Environment. The continual use of conventional construction materials has immensely

exploited and damaged the environment. Thus, this study would promote bamboo and coconut as

sustainable materials, which could help alleviate waste and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from

conventional construction materials.

Civil Engineers. The study will be an eye-opener to the present and future engineers to

advance construction by utilizing bamboo and coconut fibers as an admixture. This study will

serve as an additional study to design mixture proportioning by using different additives that

maximize the strength of the concrete in a low-rise residential building.

Farmers. The study is mainly in line with agriculture. Thus, this will provide farmers and

other laborers with more income and adaptability to local bamboo and coconut.

Public/Common People. This study will help the public perceive a home that not only

lessens the cost expenditure but also contributes to a green environment.

Future Researchers. This study would be a supporting paper and a basis for future

researchers who plan to conduct research in line with this topic.

8
 CHAPTER 2

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

This part of the research will present various literature and studies by various authors

focusing on a topic related to the components of concrete, the use of bamboo fibers and coconut

fibers as admixtures, and their properties.

KEYWORDS: Bamboo fibers, Coconut fibers, UTM, admixtures, concrete

Concrete

Britannica defines concrete as a structural material made of a hard, chemically inert particle

element called aggregate (typically sand and gravel) bound together with cement and water in the

building industry. Extra elements, known as admixtures, are commonly utilized to improve the

qualities of fresh and hardened concrete. Water-reducing admixtures, for example, are frequently

used to improve the workability of fresh concrete without increasing its water content, preserving

the hardened concrete's strength and durability. Chemical and mineral admixtures are the two

primary categories of admixtures. According to Brown (2001), concrete is a primary building

material found in practically any structure. The deck of many structures, including steel bridges,

is even built of concrete. For foundation construction, concrete is the most popular and commonly

utilized material. The base is generally composed of concrete, even if the superstructure is steel or

wood. Concrete is the chosen material for slab on grade flooring, whether industrial, commercial,

or residential.

In history, concrete is an old construction material that was first utilized about the year 20

B.C. under the Roman Empire. to the year 200 A.D. The word concrete comes from the Latin word

concretus, which means "to grow together." Although this early mixture was formed using lime,

9
cement, and a volcanic ash substance called pozzolana, concrete is now a sophisticated material to

which exotic constituents can be added and can achieve a compressive strength of 50,000 psi with

computer-controlled batching. Moreover, concrete was used in ancient Egypt and was further

developed by the ancient Romans. They used volcanic-ash cement (pozzolana) to allow for a vast

expansion of architectural methods, including the development of large domes and vaults (often

reinforced by brick ribbing), foundations, and structures such as bridges and sewerage systems

that required waterproofing. Clay was the most common bonding substance among the ancient

Assyrians and Babylonians. Using lime and gypsum as binders, the Egyptians created a product

that resembled contemporary concrete. Until the early 1800s, the principal pozzolanic, or cement-

forming, agent was lime (calcium oxide) produced from limestone, chalk, or (where accessible)

oyster shells. Joseph Aspdin, an English inventor, burnt and ground a mixture of limestone and

clay in 1824. This mixture, known as Portland cement, has remained the most widely used

cementing agent in concrete production to this day.

Components of Concrete

Cement

Cement is the binding ingredient of concrete. It is produced by a mixture of lime, silica,

and alumina. A small amount of gypsum is mixed to manage the cement's setting period. Joseph

Aspdin of England was the first to patent Portland cement in 1824. In 1871, David Saylor of

Coplay, Pennsylvania, became the first person in the United States to create Portland cement. He

burned lime in vertical kilns identical to those used for burning lime. In 1899, the rotating kiln

flourished. Cement production in the United States peaked in the 1990s at over 800 million tons

10
(725 million tonnes), with global production reaching 5 billion tons (4.5 10 9 tonnes). Cement is

a powdered substance that combines with water to generate a cement paste, used to cement or bind

concrete. The cement paste must thoroughly coat each aggregate particle, and the concrete hardens

into a strong, stonelike mass as it cures in a process known as hydration.

There are various types of cement produced to suit different applications. The American

Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) recognizes the five main types of cement:

Figure 2.1. Types of Cement

The fineness of cement has always been considered in selecting material in a concrete mix.

The average size of the cement particles is referred to as fineness. Because finer particles have a

greater surface area and generate more reactivity when water is introduced, the time of reaction is

determined by the fineness of the cement. More fine particles are present in Type III high-early-

strength cement than in Type I cement. Finer cement bleeds less than coarser cement.

Furthermore, finer cement improves workability and results in reduced autoclave

expansion. However, finer cement costs more to make. If the particles are too fine, they can cause

more significant shrinkage, increased water demand, a severe reaction with alkali-reactive

aggregates, and poor stability. Cement packages labeled with ASTM A150 meet industrial

physical and chemical requirements standards.

11
Water

As a rule of thumb, the water used for mixing concrete should be drinkable. Any drinkable

water is usually free of dangerous contaminants. Contaminated water is rarely a concern in

metropolitan areas where municipal water sources are accessible. In general, water for mixing

concrete is suitable if it is adequately clear and does not have a terrible odor or a brackish or salty

flavor. If in doubt, evaluate the cement paste's setting time, compressive strength, and durability

to see if the water is suitable. The setting time test may be sufficient in most circumstances. Sugar,

tannic acid, vegetable debris, oil, humic acid, alkali salts, free carbonic acid, sulfates, and water

containing effluents from paint and fertilizer manufacturers and sewage treatment facilities are

prohibited contaminants in concrete water.

Aggregates

According to Beall (2001), aggregates are substantially less expensive than cement and can

account for up to 90% of the total volume of the concrete. The sand, gravel, crushed stone, crushed

slag, and pumice are the most frequent aggregates used in concrete. Fine and coarse aggregates are

used. Further, even while some aggregates react minimally with the cement paste, they are often

considered inert filler materials. Britannica states that aggregate provides the completed product

volume, stability, wear, erosion resistance, and other desired physical features. Based on the book

authored by Brown (2001), aggregates that have sizes greater than 0.25 in (6 mm) are classified as

coarse aggregates. In contrast, fine aggregates' sizes range from 0.25 to 0.01 inches (6 to 0.25 mm).

The minimum particle size should not be smaller than 0.01 in (0.25 mm) because fine particles

increase water consumption and impair strength (Brown, 2001).

12
Admixture

An admixture is a material used in concrete or mortar that is not water, aggregate, hydraulic

cement, or fiber reinforcement. It is added to the batch before or during mixing (Ramachandran,

1996). According to Levy (2001), admixtures are chemicals that help produce a high-quality

concrete product more accessible for a contractor. Chemical assault, infiltration by water and

gasses from external sources, cracking due to chemical reaction (known as the heat of hydration),

corrosion of steel reinforcing, freeze/thaw cycles, and abrasion are just a few of the factors that

cause concrete to deteriorate. The Concrete Admixtures Handbook by Ramachandran (1996) states

that reduced water requirements, higher workability, controlled setting, quicker hardening,

improved strength, better durability, desired coloring, and volume changes are all advantages of

using additives in concrete.

Bamboo

Bamboo is a grass-like member of the Poaceae family, according to Britannica. Bamboo is

one of the fastest-growing grasses on the planet and about 1,400 different bamboo species, with

Southeast Asia having the highest number of these species. Bamboo can grow in Africa, Australia,

Latin America, and the southern United States, while it has also been reported to grow in cooler

climes. There are reported types of Bamboo (Guadua and Mosa) that can grow 25 cm per day. Due

to its fast-growing rate, these plants can reach their full length (18-30 m) in 6 months. These

grasses mostly grow in tropical countries such as the Philippines. About 2000 islands in the

Philippines are a natural habitat for distinct bamboo species.

Bamboos are also known for their ecological and environmental benefits. They can be used

to stabilize the earth and avoid soil erosion. They can also be used in reforestation as they can

13
thrive in different site conditions, making it easy to live in different environments. Bamboo forests

are also one of the most prominent carbon dioxide collectors.

In addition to its availability in tropical and subtropical countries and its environmental and

ecological benefit, different researchers have been studying Bamboo as reinforcement to structural

elements, such as beams, columns, etc. In a study by Archila et al. (2018), bamboos are compared

to steel. Bamboo is a highly renewable plant with high strength comparable to timber. When

dry, Bamboo's strength can reach up to 30-50 mPa, comparable to high-grade hardwood (Oak and

American White Oak). However, since radial fibers are absent in bamboos, it is fragile

perpendicular to the threads. Thus, making it susceptible to longitudinal shear, transverse tension,

and compression failures.

Bamboo fiber and its properties

Bamboo fiber is a cellulosic fiber derived from the bamboo plant. It's a promising green

fabric with excellent biodegradable textile properties and strength comparable to traditional glass

fibers. The bamboo used to prepare fiber is usually 3 4 years old. Alkaline hydrolysis and multi-

phase bleaching of bamboo stems and leaves are followed by chemical treatment of the starchy

pulp formed throughout the process to produce fiber. Bamboo fiber features a variety of micro-

gaps that make it softer and more absorbent than cotton. They're flexible, eco-friendly, and

biodegradable. The fiber has many properties: bacteriostatic, antifungal, antibacterial,

hypoallergenic, hydroscopic, natural deodorizer, and UV radiation resistant.

In addition, it is also extremely robust, stable, and tough, with high tensile strength.

Bamboo fibers are primarily employed in the textile sector to make clothing, towels, and bathrobes

due to their diverse characteristics. It's used to make bandages, masks, nursing wear, and sanitary

napkins because of its antimicrobial properties. To reduce the impacts of germs and the harm of

14
ultraviolet radiation on human skin, bamboo fibers are used to make UV-proof, antibiotic, and

bacteriostatic curtains, television covers, and wallpapers, among other things. Bamboo fibers are

often utilized as ornamentation (Imadi et al., 2014).

Common Bamboo Species for Construction and Its Properties

Bambusa blumeana

B. blumeana is commonly called Spiny or thorny Bamboo or Kawayan tinik in the

Philippines. It is still unknown where Bambusa blumeana originated from, but it is believed to be

in Sumatra, Java, Lesser Sunda Islands, and Borneo. It was introduced in the Philippines during

the 1910s. Since then, it has become naturalized and found throughout the settled areas of the

country. Kawayan tinik is a densely tufted sympodial bamboo, with spiny basal branches forming

a densely interlaced thicket 2-3m high. The culms are erect, 15-25m tall, and 6-10 cm diameter.

The internodes are green, 25-60 cm long, have 0.5-3cm wall thickness, and prominent nodes with

the basal ones bearing aerial roots (Roxas, 2012).

According to Salzer et al. (2018), despite its thorny branches, which make harvesting more

difficult, B. blumeana is the most popular raw material utilized by the rural population to create

traditional, vernacular houses, indicating its appropriateness for construction and affordability for

the community. In addition, it is the most widely and commonly used bamboo in the Philippines.

Construction, basketry, furniture, parquet, concrete reinforcements, chopsticks, hats, and toys are

made from culms. It is commonly used to prevent soil erosion along waterways. It is also used as

a windbreak around farmhouses and as living fences in the field to create boundaries (Roxas,

2012).

15
 Furthermore, the study of Salzer et al. (2018) explains the structural qualities of B.

blumeana bamboo and recommends its use for low-rise construction. B. blumeana bamboo was

tested according to ISO 22157-1 (2004) and ISO 22157-2 (2004). Based on the conducted tests on

its physical and mechanical properties, the results showed that the tensile and compressive

strengths parallel to the grain of B. blumeana were 20 and 95 MPa, respectively; the shear strength

was 5 MPa, the bending strength was 34.6 MPa, and the mean and fifth percentile modulus of

elasticity were 13100 and 8600 MPa, respectively.

A local study of Penaredondo (2007) evaluated the tensile strength of B. blumeana as a

concrete reinforcement to the tensile strength of conventional reinforcing bars. Three bamboo

reinforced concrete beams were used to collect data. Two-point loading was employed to evaluate

the beams under flexure. The three beams' load-deflection diagrams were translated into moment-

deflection graphs, revealing the curve's critical points (Mcr, My, and Mn). In addition, the study

utilized the Ultimate Strength Design (USD). The test results showed that yielding occurs first in

the reinforcements before the concrete fails; this means that all the beams are under-reinforced.

In most cases, reinforced concrete beams are under-reinforced to give ductile behavior

while complying with design and construction limits, codes, steel reinforcement diameters, and

length availability (Lambert et al., 2008). The experimental Mcr values are lower than the

theoretical, indicating that bamboo-reinforced concrete breaks at a lesser load than the USD-

calculated counterpart. Also, because the bamboo specimens examined in the lab failed at the grasp

rather than the center, Mn from the actual experiment calculated the bamboo's yield strength (fy).

The fy of Bambusa blumeana Bamboo as reinforcement, according to calculations, is between 50

and 60 MPa. Bambusa blumeana bamboo is still stronger than concrete (Penaredondo, 2007).

16
 A local study conducted by Bautista et al. (2021) assessed the shear strength parallel to the

fiber of the different local bamboo species found in the Philipines: Bambusa blumeana,

Gigantochloa apus, Dendrocalamus asper, Bambusa philippinensis, and Bambusa vulgaris. The

test selected the mechanical property under ISO 22157-1 (2017) test protocol. Choosing the

mechanical property to evaluate is based on shear strength parallel to the fiber with the highest

variability. Under high loading circumstances, shear is one of the governing forces on joint

connections, which are failure places on bamboo structures. Based on the results, Bambusa

blumeana has the highest average shear strength of 11.44 MPa. Gigantochloa apus has an average

shear strength of 10.77 MPa, followed by Dendrocalamus asper with 10.31 MPa, Bambusa

philippinensis with 9.86 MPa, and Bambusa vulgaris with the minor average shear strength of 9.26

MPa. However, given the results, comparative analysis using one-way ANOVA confirms a

significant statistical difference in the shear strengths values among the tested bamboo specimens.

Bambusa vulgaris

According to the article of Brink (2008), Bambusa vulgaris is a common bamboo that is

widely used and grown in the tropics and subtropics. The stems make tool handles, furniture,

handicrafts, stakes, pots, weapons, irrigation pipes, and bows for fishing nets. Moreover, stems are

used for lightweight construction and fencing.

The study of Neto et al. (2021) assessed the physical and mechanical properties of B.

Vulgaris. It showed that the culm's exterior diameter is around 6 cm in the basal and median zones

and declines as it approaches the apex. 3 cm and seven cms are the minimum and maximum values,

respectively. The internode length ranges 20 cm to 47 cm from the basal to the middle zone.

Having a variation coefficient of 28% (MC = 7%), the average compressive strength parallel to

the fibers of B. Vulgaris was around 64 MPa. Compared to specimens without a node, those with

17
a node had reduced strength. Having a variation coefficient of 31.5 percent (MC = 11 percent), the

average tensile strength parallel to the fibers with a node was around 91 MPa. In addition, the

tensile strength of specimens without a node increased to 110 MPa. For samples with a node, the

average shear strength parallels to the fibers of B. Vulgaris were 6.4 MPa, with a 31.1 percent (MC

= 11 percent) variation coefficient. The shear strength of specimens without a node dropped to 4.4

MPa. The study concluded that although there is a high value for the coefficients of variation of

the tests, B. Vulgaris carries comparable properties with other species, thus competent and suited

for applications in architecture and engineering.

In addition, the study of Anokye & Bakar (2014) revealed that the moisture content affects

the shrinkage of Gigantochloa scortechinii and Bambusa vulgaris with variations in its heights.

The shrinkage pattern of the two bamboo species tested also revealed that, with a ratio of 1.15:1,

the radial directions tend to shrink slightly more than the tangential directions. The dimensional

stability of bamboo is facilitated by the negligible differential radial and tangential shrinkage.

Bambusa merrilliana

According to the handbook of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources

(DENR) and Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) by Roxas (2012), B.

merrilliana is commonly called Bayog and is an endemic species to the Philippines. Bayog is a

clumping bamboo with erect and robust culms that reach a height of around 20 meters, with a

diameter of 8-12 centimeters, and walls up to 4 centimeters thick. Moreover, the lower internodes

are up to 30cm long, moderately hollow, and occasionally virtually solid at the base; the upper

ones are green and smooth. The exterior surface is firmly ribbed, slightly hairy with brown to black

hairs, while the inner surface is weakly ribbed, lustrous, and glabrous. Culm sheaths are 20 cm

long, 25cm wide, thinned upward to truncate. Bayog has a unique characteristic of thicker and

18
stronger culms (Fajardo et al., 2015). Bayog is an essential source of food for health and wellness

and an integral part of the environment (Caasi-Lit et al., 2018).

A local study by Razal & Servañez (2011) examined the physical and mechanical

properties of culturally preformed B. merrilliana culms. The results showed that the mechanical

properties of B. merrilliana have 1.92 tons are the maximum load carried in bending; 1.16 tons

load at its proportional limit; 84.48 MPa is the stress at the proportional limit; 3.94 GPa for its

modulus of elasticity; and 138.90 MPa for the modulus of rupture. The results show a significant

difference between the bends of the upper portion and the lower portion of the culms. The

following are the physical characteristics of bent Bayog culms: average specific gravity is 0.45,

and mean moisture content is 112.0 percent at the inner radius and 114.5 percent at the outer radius

of each bend. The amount of shrinkage varied depending on where you were on the bent culm

wall's arc. Cracking has plagued the commercial use of natural bamboo, directly tied to the

interaction between moisture content (MC) and drying shrinkage (Fei &Liu, 2020).

Dendrocalamus asper

Dendrocalamus asper is commonly called the Giant Bamboo. It is a densely tufted,

sympodial bamboo with upright culms, a drooping tip, and a wall thickness of 11-36mm. It grows

20-30 m tall, 8-20 cm in diameter, and has a wall thickness of 11-36mm. D. asper culms have thick

walls, are sturdy, and are long-lasting, making them ideal for use as a construction material in

building houses and bridges (Roxas, 2012).

A local study by Amatosa Jr. & Loretero (2016) examined the mechanical properties of D.

asper bamboo as a construction material. The study utilized natural preservation for the three

separate sets of specimens subjected to compressive and bending testing in compliance with the

19
ISO 22157-1:2004 and ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) standards. The results

indicate a significant difference between salt-treated, freshwater treated, and untreated specimens;

the three samples' compressive strength is 53.61 MPa, 45.16 MPa, and 34.12 MPa, respectively.

While on the other hand, salt-treated samples got the highest average bending strength of 218.35

MPa, followed by freshwater treated with 188.05 MPa, and the untreated samples with 71.75 MPa.

There is an inverse relationship between bamboo's bending strength and modulus elasticity; as the

strength decreases from bottom to top, the modulus of elasticity increases. To conclude, it revealed

both treated and untreated materials are demonstrated to be suitable constructional materials with

high mechanical qualities against compression and bending, which may help to alleviate the

country's deforestation problem.

Gigantochloa atter

Gigantochloa atter is abundant in countries like Indonesia. Sympodial bamboo with

densely tufted leaves. Internodes 40-50 cm long, on the top part with chestnut brown appressed

hairs; lower nodes with a few aerial roots; culm up to 25 m tall, 5-10 cm in diameter, wall up to 8

mm thick, bluish-green with noticeable pale rings on the nodes; internodes 40-50 cm long, on

higher part with chestnut brown appressed hairs. G. atter culm is widely utilized as a building

material (framework, fences, walls). It is also used to manufacture furniture, beds, culinary

equipment, meat skewers, chopsticks, toothpicks, and handicrafts (e.g., basketry, lampshades)

(Rifai, 2021).

According to the study of Abdullah (2017), G. Atter has the best mechanical performance

among the five most common bamboos in Indonesia; Gigantochloa Apus Kurz, Bambusa vulgaris

schard var. Vitata, Gigantochloa pseudoarundinacea, and Gigantochloa verticillata. Based on the

results of the test, G. atter, G. apus, B. Vulgaris schard var. Vitata, G. pseudoarundinacea, and G.

20
verticillata have tensile strengths of 195, 179, 82, 114, and 118 MPa, respectively, with an elastic

modulus of 16.7, 7.5, 14.3, 16.0, and 10.1 GPa.

Gigantochloa levis

According to the handbook of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources

(DENR) and Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) by Roxas (2012),

Gigantochloa levis has an unknown origin. It is widely grown in the Philippines, as well as in

Northern and Western Borneo. G. levis is a densely tufted, sympodial bamboo with a 5-10 cm

diameter and a height of 13-20m. The culms are erect, green, and have a wall thickness of 1.0-

1.2cm. The base of the culms is densely covered with chestnut brown hairs. Culms are employed

in constructing buildings, basketry, furniture, scaffolding, and fish enclosures. Shoots can also be

eaten.

According to the article written by Wong (2019), G. levis has the following properties: its

green culms have a compression strength parallel to grain up to 38-44 MPa and 39-43 MPa, for

culms with nodes and without nodes, respectively. In addition, G. levis culm is used in rough house

construction as a framework or splits for walls.

Bamboo fiber as Admixture

New types of regenerated fibers, which are an alternative to conventional fibers such as

cotton, have gained relevance in apparel and home textile manufacture as the desire for more

comfortable, healthier, and environmentally friendly products grow. The utilization of bamboo

fiber in various textile goods is one of the most recent advancements in new fiber research projects.

Bamboo fiber has several natural qualities that are superior to cotton fiber. Manufacturers have

also claimed fabrics composed of the bamboo fiber to have superior moisture absorbency,

21
excellent air permeability, high elasticity, soft feel, and dyeability than cotton. According to

Tomalang et al. (1980), the principal elements of bamboo culms are holocellulose (60 70%),

pentosans (20 25%), hemicelluloses and lignin (each 20 30%), and minor constituents such as

resins, tannins, waxes, and inorganic salts.

Chew et al. (1992) discovered that Bambusa vulgaris contains 2.37 percent glucose, 2.07

percent fructose, and 0.5 percent sucrose. Before and after soaking, the total sugar content was

4.94 percent and 0.28 percent, respectively. Using the soaking process, the sugar content may be

lowered below 0.5 percent, a permissible threshold for cement-bonded particleboard manufacture.

A study by Yusra & Salena (2020) concluded that bamboo fiber in the concrete mix shows

a decrease in the compressive strength of high-strength concrete but is still classified as high-

quality concrete because it has a compressive strength greater than 50 MPa. On the contrary, it

shows an increase in the tensile strength of concrete due to the addition of bamboo fiber which

gives the bamboo fiber a potential as an additive material. Marrero et al. (2017) concluded that

bamboo fibers in concrete mixtures increased compressive and split tensile strengths. The research

showed a 22 percent increase in average compressive strength and a 17 percent increase in average

tensile strength.

Another study by Ede et al. (2020) examined the influence of combining bamboo fibers

and limestone powder on the new, hardened and microstructural properties of self-compacting

concrete. The results revealed that the addition of bamboo fiber increased the cohesiveness and

internal resistance of the fresh Self-compacting Concrete (SCC) mixes. Moreover, as the curing

time goes on, the usage of mixed limestone powder and bamboo fiber improves the compressive

and tensile strengths of the mixtures. Thus, Bamboo fibers can be utilized as natural fibers in the

manufacturing of self-compacting concrete.

22
 The study of Kavitha (2016) concluded that Bamboo fibers could be employed as novel

fibers in concrete to boost concrete strength, ductility, and post-cracking load-carrying capability.

The strength difference between bamboo fiber concrete specimens and control concrete specimens

became very noticeable in the early curing stages. From a compressive and split tensile strength

standpoint, the highest gain was 41 N/mm2 and 4.8 N/mm2, respectively; thus, 1 percent fiber

content is ideal for aspect ratios of 30. The addition of bamboo fibers makes the concrete more

flexure resistant, with a maximum improvement of 7.5 N/mm2 recorded after 28 days (about four

weeks), indicating that fiber content boosts flexural strength (Kavitha, 2016).

Another study by Dewi et al. (2017) evaluates the use of bamboo fiber to improve the

performance of bamboo reinforced concrete at the tension crack area. According to the results,

adding fibers to concrete reduces the crack width and post-cracking load-carrying ability.

However, an increase in fiber might reduce a slump, workability, and concrete quality. Fiber

addition can boost the reinforced concrete beam's first crack load capacity while reducing the crack

width. Fiber addition can effectively resist and reduce crack growth and propagation (Dewi et al.,

2017).

According to Haichuan et al. (2021), bamboo fiber is biodegradable, recyclable,

inexpensive, and sustainable. Like polyester fiber, the bamboo fiber in the asphalt mixture

improves stiffness and fatigue performance under long-term aging circumstances. As a result,

bamboo fiber is employed as a reinforcing material in asphalt mixtures, extending the life of

asphalt pavements and contributing to resource sustainability. Wahyuni et al. (2014) revealed that

the compressive strength of concrete is good, but the tensile strength is low. The addition of natural

fiber to fresh concrete can improve the concrete matrix's ductility.

23
Coconut

Britannica defines the coconut palm (Cocos nucifera) as a palm of the Arecaceae family

widely farmed in tropical climates for its coconut's edible fruit. Coconut palms may be found along

tropical coasts and have originated in Indo-Malaya. Coconuts are considered one of the most

important tropical crops, and they are the most economically essential palm species. From a

swelling base, the coconut palm's slender, leaning, the ringed trunk grows to a height of up to 25

meters (80 feet) and is crowned with an elegant canopy of gigantic featherlike leaves. A thick

fibrous husk surrounds commerce's characteristic single-seeded nut, ovoid or ellipsoid in shape

and measures 300 450 mm (12 18 inches) in length and 150 200 mm (6 8 inches) in diameter in

mature fruits. The tiny embryo with its abundant endosperm, made up of meat and liquid, is

encased in a hard shell.

Coconut Fiber and its Properties

Coir is a seed-hair fiber made from the coconut's outer shell or husk. The coarse, rigid,

reddish-brown fiber comprises tiny threads of lignin and cellulose that are roughly 0.03 to 0.1 cm

(0.01 to 0.04 inch) long and 12 to 24 microns in diameter (a micron is around 0.00004 inches).

The top coir producers are India and Sri Lanka. The treated fibers are lightweight, brittle, robust,

and elastic, with a propensity to curl, and their length ranges from 10 to 30 cm (4 to 12 inches).

Hand processing often results in a higher-quality fiber. They can be colored and are abrasion

resistant. Brushes are made from them, and matting is woven from them. They're also spun into

yarn for nautical cordage and fishnets. In gardening, coconut coir is frequently advocated as a more

environmentally friendly alternative to peat moss. As a soil amendment, it aids in moisture

retention and aeration. It's also utilized in hydroponic farming as a growing medium.

24
 Further, Mishra & Basu (2020) stated in the Handbook of Natural Fibers that due to the

coconut fibers' high flexural rigidity (1100 mN-mm FAO, 2013) and big diameter (320 m (100

795 m), coconut fiber is classified as a hard fiber. It has a wide range of fiber lengths (43 305

mm), a low modulus (200 cN/tex-m), and a high tenacity (11.25 cN/tex). Extensibility (21.5 35%)

and specific work of rupture (12.2 cN/tex-m) are also relatively high in lignocellulosic fibers,

making them an exception. The lack of inter-fiber cohesion in coconut fibers makes the handling

of the fiber sheet complex (sliver). Coconut fiber is difficult to spin into finer yarn due to its low

length-to-diameter ratio (650), high coarseness, and flexural rigidity. When the compressive force

on the fiber bulk was removed, the fiber recovered 59.3 percent instantly and 81.5 percent after 2

hours. Compared to other lignocellulosic fibers, the fiber contains a lot of lignin (30% 45%). (viz.,

jute, sisal, flax). Coconut fiber has a lignin/cellulose ratio close to that of hardwood (Mishra &

Basu, 2020).

Coconut fiber as Admixture

Ramli et al. (2014) investigated the mechanical properties of coconut fiber as a concrete

admixture. The test findings revealed that as the amount of total fiber in the concrete mix grew,

the compressive strength of the concrete declined. Compared to conventional concrete, the trial

findings demonstrated that coconut fiber concrete performed satisfactorily if crack growth. Finally,

it was determined that coconut fibers in manufacturing lightweight or regular concrete in the

construction of concrete structures had significant potential. Coconut fiber is an excellent low-cost

alternative because it is a natural substance that is readily available and inexpensive. As a result,

this material can solve the industry's cost-increasing challenge (Ramli et al., 2014).

Another study by Yalley & Kwan (2009) concluded that the addition of coconut fiber to

concrete improves concrete's toughness, torsion, and tensile stress. Further, the addition of coconut

25
fibers increased many of the concrete's engineering attributes, including torsion, toughness, and

tensile strength. Also, there was an improvement in the resistance to cracking and spalling. On the

other hand, the inclusion of fibers had a negative impact on compressive strength. When coconut

fiber was added to plain concrete, it boosted torsional strength (by up to 25%) and energy-

absorbing capacity. However, there is an ideal weight fraction (0.5 percent by weight of coconut

fiber). Beyond that point, the torsional strength began to decline again. Similar results were

achieved for various fiber aspect ratios, indicating an ideal aspect ratio of (125). Increases in fiber

weight fraction resulted in a steady rise in ductility up to the optimum content (0.5%) and a fiber

aspect ratio of 125.

In their study, Noor et al. (2011) concluded that coconut fiber could be employed as

reinforcement and a sand alternative in producing composite cement reinforced coconut fiber. Up

to a specific ideal composition, increasing the percentage of coconut fiber will enhance the

composites' modulus of rupture and compressive strength. The ideal content of coconut fiber in

this study is 9wt. a certain percentage as the amount of coconut fiber in the product grows, the

mechanical qualities will deteriorate due to a lack of workability.

Universal Testing Machine (UTM)

Universal testing machines (UTMs), sometimes known as universal testers, may perform

various tests to determine a material's compressive and tensile strength. Standard tensile and

compressive testing, seal strength tests, bond strength tests, bend tests, puncture tests, and spring

tests are examples of these tests. A standards agency, such as the American Society for Testing

and Materials (ASTM) International standards agency, often specifies the test to be utilized for a

specific material type. Since the 1800s, universal testing machines have existed in various forms.

Testing the strength of the steel used in steam power boilers was one of the first applications. Large

26
quantities of steam pressure were encapsulated in these boilers, and explosions were catastrophic

and common. UTM offers the load application value as well as the corresponding displacements.

The load-deflection graph is created using the observed value. The Y-axis represents the load

value, and the X-axis represents the displacement. The movement of the crossheads determines

the displacement during the application of the load. The stress-strain analysis, modulus of

elasticity, and yield strength of the specimen examined can all be derived from the load-deflection

graph.

Synthesis and Justification

The Philippines, a country that primarily relies on agricultural produce for food

consumption, is a great contributor to the agricultural wastes being dumped elsewhere. The number

of agricultural wastes is growing faster than the rate of urbanization. Some people from different

regions of the country are still unaware of utilizing these wastes and recycling them into valuable

and sustainable materials. Coconuts are considered one of the most important tropical crops, and

they are the most economically essential palm species. However, most coconut waste includes

coconut shells, coconut husks, and coconut coir dust. On the other hand, bamboo is also abundant

in the country and is widely used in different industries.

The literature review helped the researchers investigate and recognize the utilization and

characterization of bamboo fibers and coconut fibers as sustainable materials to innovate concrete

mix design in the construction industry.

Coconut fiber possesses a lignin/cellulose ratio close to that of hardwood (Mishra & Basu,

2020). Moreover, coconut fiber has shown its capability and potential in the construction industry.

The use of coconut fibers in manufacturing lightweight or regular concrete in constructing concrete

27
structures had significant potential (Ramli et al., 2014). Likewise, the addition of coconut fibers

has seen a significant improvement in the properties of concrete. On the other hand, bamboo fiber

can be utilized as natural fibers in the production of self-compacting concrete as it increases the

cohesiveness and internal resistance of the concrete (Ede et al., 2020). Also, the bamboo fiber in

concrete affects the compressive strength of the concrete. Still, it increases its tensile strength,

which gives the bamboo fiber a potential as an additive material (Yusra & Salena, 2020).

As formulated on numerous studies and literature reviews, the researchers produced the

idea of integrating bamboo fibers and coconut fibers as an admixture for concrete design mixes

that could enhance the strength and workability of the concrete, which will be tested through the

Universal Testing Machine (UTM).

Theoretical Framework

The number of related literature and studies regarding concrete and its components,

bamboo fibers and its properties, bamboo species used in construction, bamboo fiber as admixture,

coconut fiber, and its properties, and coconut fiber as admixtures were sufficiently investigated by

the researchers. Thus, it concludes that there are still gaps in the studies to improve the strength

and quality of concrete with natural fibers. Due to the emergence of global warming, wherein the

construction industry is a great contributor to waste products, there have been many studies that

investigate the use of sustainable materials as a possible substitute for the materials used in

construction. Concrete being the most widely used material in construction, researchers are still

finding ways to improve the strength of concrete by adding natural fibers such as fibers from

coconut, Bamboo, wood cellulose, wool or chips, bark, leaves, seeds, and fruits.

28
 The addition of admixtures in concrete production results in increased workability,

controlled setting, faster hardening, improved strength, better durability, desired coloring, and

volume changes in the concrete (Ramachandran, 1996). In addition, concrete has high compressive

strength but low tensile strength. The addition of natural fiber to fresh concrete can increase the

ductility of the concrete matrix (Wahyuni et al., 2014). According to Bakliwal S. & Bakliwal H.

(2018), fibers are commonly utilized in concrete to prevent shrinkage cracks caused by plastic

shrinkage and drying shrinkage. They also prevent water bleeding by lowering the permeability of

concrete. Concrete with certain fibers has higher impact, abrasion, and shatter resistance. Fibers

do not increase the flexural strength of concrete in general, hence they cannot be used in place of

moment resistant or structural steel reinforcement. Concrete's strength is lowered by some fibers.

The volume fraction (Vf) refers to how much fiber is added to a concrete mix as a percentage of

the overall volume of the composite (concrete and fibers). Vf usually ranges between 0.1 and 3%.

The aspect ratio (l/d) is obtained by dividing the length of the fiber (l) by the diameter of the fiber

(d). The aspect ratio of fibers with a non-circular cross-section is calculated using an equivalent

diameter. The disadvantage of utilizing conventional additives in concrete is that they increase

drying shrinkage, have less resistance to sulfate attack, and are more expensive, despite the benefits

noted above. There are a lot of studies conducted in trying to find sustainable, inexpensive

materials that can be used as additives to concrete. If this study yields significant results, further

studies can be conducted to expand investigations on natural fibers available in the country to be

employed in the concrete mix.

29
 Review of existing Gathering of Advanced
related literature Materials and mixture
and studies about Equipment proportion for
the component of Generating Concrete concrete with
cement and Design Mixture additives on low-
properties of rise residential
bamboo fiber and Developing Concrete buildings
coconut husk as Cylinders
Economic
an admixture. Controlled Sample evaluation of the
PROCESS

OUTPUT
Review of Treated Sample newly developed
INPUT

standard Curing of Concrete concrete

specification of Cylinders Recommendation
concrete mixture.
Universal Testing
Method (UTM) of
Controlled and
Treated Samples
ASTM C39/ C39M
Concrete Cylinder
Compression Testing
Data Interpretation
and Analysis
Comparison of Data
Samples
Statistical Treatment

Figure 2.2. Conceptual Framework

30
 CHAPTER 3

Chapter 3 provides the research methodologies and procedures used in conducting the

study for the analysis of concrete design mix to determine the strength of concrete with bamboo

and coconut fiber admixtures. Further, this section also consists of the research design, research

locale, data gathering procedure, data gathering instrument, and statistical treatment of the study.

Phase 1: Review of existing Related Literature and Study

The researchers sufficiently investigated the number of related literature and studies

regarding concrete and its components, bamboo fibers and its properties, bamboo species used in

construction, bamboo fiber as admixture, coconut fiber and its properties, and coconut fiber as

admixtures. Thus, it concludes that there were still gaps in the studies to improve the strength and

quality of concrete with natural fibers. Due to the emergence of global warming, wherein the

construction industry is a great contributor to waste products, many studies have investigated the

use of sustainable materials as a possible substitute for the materials used in construction.

Additionally, since concrete is the most widely used material in construction, the researchers will

focus on investigating its strength along with the admixtures of bamboo and coconut fibers in low-

rise residential buildings in order to formulate a design mix that could significantly improve the

construction industry.

Consequently, the researchers conducted extensive research regarding the design mix

proportion and composition of cement in low-rise residential buildings, different types of

bamboos, and the advantages and limitations of bamboo fibers and coconut fibers as an admixture.

The sources were gathered from reliable online platforms such as Mapua University Online

Library, Research Gate, and ScienceDirect.

31
Phase 2: Review of Standard Specification

The researchers based the design mix and cast in place of concrete and testing method to

the standard specification in construction. Starting from the design mixture proportion of concrete

for low-rise residential buildings, the type of class it is under shall be in Class A which is denoted

by 1:2:4 (1 bag of cement: 2 bags of sand: 4 bags of gravel). While the casting of concrete was in

accordance with ACI 301 (Specification of Concrete in Buildings) and ACI 308.1 (Concrete

Curing) for the proper procedure of making cylindrical concrete to ensure its quality and assurance

of effectivity. Additionally, the standard testing method that the study utilized was ASTM C39 /

C39M Concrete Cylinder Compression Test.

Phase 3.1: Gathering of Materials and Equipment

The table shows the main materials used to produce the different mixture proportion of

cement with bamboo fiber and coconut husk. In terms of the materials the researchers utilized

Type 1P as per standard, guaranteed quality standard and free from dirt and dusk sand, coarse

aggregate that has the size of 40 mm to 60 mm, the bamboo vulgaris for the bamboo fiber, and the

coconut fibers. The following quantities of materials were estimated to suffice the samples for the

study.

32
 Table 3.1. Material

Quantity Unit Material

2 bag Ordinary Portland
Cement
0.2 cubic meter Sand
0.2 cubic meter Coarse Aggregate
2 bag Bamboo fiber
2 bag Coconut fiber
1 bag Caustic Soda

Table 3.2 shows the equipment utilized in making the cement with admixtures of bamboo

fiber and coconut husk for the following mixture proportion needed for the study. The various

equipment will be sourced locally and conforms to the construction standard. In addition, the

standard size for testing for the cylinder molder size is 6 inches by 12 inches. The experiment

would not be completed if it not for the equipment.

Table 3.2. Equipment

Quantity Equipment
3 Concrete Cylinder Molder
1 Saw
1 Steel Rod
1 Mallet
1 Shovel
1 Trowel

33
Phase 3.2: Extraction of bamboo fiber and coconut fiber

Initially, the bamboo and coconut were separately cut into smaller pieces using a saw to fit

the containers for the extraction. There were two (2) containers namely, container A for the

bamboo fiber extraction and container B for coconut fiber extraction. Both commenced the same

experiment in which the bamboo and coconut were stored for two (2) days inside the container

containing the mixture of water and caustic soda. After the bamboo and coconut fibers were

evident in the storage, both were put on an open box for air drying.

Figure 3.1 Air Drying of Fiber

34
 Figure 3.2 Bamboo and Coconut husk fiber

Phase 4: Generating Concrete Design Mixture

T 3.3 depicts the standard casting of a concrete cylinder made of cement, aggregates (sand

and gravel), and water. The design mix of concrete used for low-rise residential buildings as per

standard is Class A, with a probable strength of 2,500 psi to 3,000 psi after 28 days (4 weeks). The

concrete proportion mixture of 1:2:4 denotes the ratio of one (1) bag cement, two (2) bags of sand,

and four (4) bags of gravel.

35
 Table 3.3. Controlled Group

Percentage
Name Bamboo Coconut
Cement Sand Gravel
fiber Fiber
Sample A 100% 100% 100% 0% 0%
Sample B 100% 100% 100% 0% 0%
Sample C 100% 100% 100% 0% 0%

According to Srinivasa Rao, the volume of fibers that can be added to a concrete mix is

within the percentage of 0.1 % to 3.0% of the total volume of the concrete, and by dividing the

fiber length by its diameter, the aspect ratio can be calculated. Thus, the table below describes the

mixture proportion of concrete with local admixtures used for low-rise residential buildings. The

treated samples will utilize a proportional percentage between the bamboo and coconut fibers to

be added to the M15 (1:2:4) design concrete mix. Accordingly, the parameter will only utilize

three percentages: 0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5% for the fibers.

Table 3.4. Treated Sample

Percentage
Name Bamboo Coconut
Cement Sand Gravel
fiber Fiber
Sample 1.1 100% 100% 100% 0.25% 0.25%
Sample 1.2 100% 100% 100% 0.50% 0.50%
Sample 1.3 100% 100% 100% 0.75% 0.75%

36
Phase 5: Developing Concrete Cylinders

For the casting of concrete cylinders, the design mix of concrete followed the standard ratio

1:2:4 (cement:sand:gravel) for low-rise residential building which was the controlled sample.

While the treated samples abide the design mix standard, and the additives were proportioned

equally.

As for the procedure, the dry materials such as the cement and sand were manually (hand)

mixed thoroughly to ensure both were properly distributed to the mixture. Accordingly, for treated

samples the bamboo and coconut fibers were placed on the mixed dry cement and sand and were

mixed at least three (3) times for it to be equally dispensed. Then, the mixture of dry materials was

stacked on the top of the gravel to be mixed again to uniformly have the consistency of the cement

mixture all together. The water was added gradually while the mixture was being mixed.

Figure 3.3 Mixture of 1:2:4 with bamboo and coconut fibers

After the mixture was done, it was put inside the concrete cylinder molder (6 by 12 in) with

a shovel. The concrete mixture was distributed into three (3) layers wherein every layer was

tamped by a steel rod twenty-five (25) times to avoid open spaces inside the molder. The top was

37
leveled to keep the surface flat and even for finishing. Additionally, the side of the mold was

tapped by a mallet at least ten (10) to fifteen (15) times to remove any excess water and air inside

the mold.

Figure 3.4 Adding of Cement Mixture to the Molder

Phase 6: Curing of Concrete Cylinder

After generating and casting the design concrete mix, the controlled and treated cylinders

were placed in a suitable and safe curing environment. Each concrete cylinder was marked with

its designated number and corresponding alphabet in order to distinguish the samples from each

other.

For the curing age, the first batch of concrete cylinder was cured for three (3) days, the

second batch was cured for seven (7) days, and lastly, the third batch was cured for fourteen (14)

days.

38
 Figure 3.5 Curing of Concrete Cylinders

Phase 7: Testing of Controlled and Treated Concrete Cylinder Samples

For this phase, the utilization of Universal Testing Machine (UTM) occurred wherein

ASTM C39/ C39M Concrete Cylinder Compression Test was used to test the controlled and

treated samples.

Likely, to compute the composition and compressive strength of the controlled and treated

concrete cylinders the following formulas were obtained:

Area:

Where: A = Area of the concrete cylinder (mm2)

D = Diameter of the concrete cylinder (mm)

39
Compressive Strength:

Where: f'c = Compressive strength of concrete cylinder in megapascals (MPa)

F = Force (N)

A = Average cross-sectional area of the concrete cylinder

The composition of the concrete cylinders was measured before it is tested in the UTM for

comparison after testing. In addition, for the computation of the compressive strength, it was

calculated from the area and the maximum force from the result of the compressive testing.

Phase 8: Data Interpretation and Analysis

For this phase, the comparison of the variations of the design mix of concrete will be

computed and analyzed. Each concrete cylinder was the variables plotted to find the relationship

of those samples to find the best design mixture for concrete. Additionally, One-way analysis of

Variance Test (ANOVA test) was used to find the significant differences of the variables. Lastly,

a 2-storey duplex was utilized for the structural works estimation of the concrete cement mixture

to compare the price value of standardized concrete to concrete with admixtures of bamboo and

coconut fibers.

40
Research Design

The study is in line with experimental research which abides intently to the scientific

approach of having two (2) set of variables, the controlled and treated groups. In this study, it will

comprehensively apply the quantitative approach of data collection, measurement, and analysis of

the effectivity of strengthening the concrete by using bamboo and coconut fibers within the various

mixture proportion conforming to the standard ratio of concrete mix. The materials, equipment,

and locale of the experiment where source locally near San Pedro, Laguna. In addition, ANOVA

will be used for the statistical treatment of the study in order to test the differences between the

variables.

Research Setting

The research setting of the study is conducted in different places that are accessible to the

researchers because of the pandemic constraints. Though, it does not limit the extensivity of

thorough investigation and analysis of secondary sources through the online libraries provided by

Mapua University. Additionally, the central location of the study was done locally in San Pedro,

Laguna. The location was used for the experimentation of the study while the materials and

equipment were gathered near it.

As for the vital completion of the study, the researchers found a private laboratory named

TERMS Concrete and Materials Testing Laboratory Inc. located in Dasmariñas, Cavite which was

used for testing the controlled and treated samples in order to suffice the objective of the study.

After collecting data, the interpretation of the study was made respectively to the researchers'

homes for safety and convenience.

41
Data Gathering Procedures

Data gathering procedure is the required data collection to be used from the specific

research methodology designed by the researchers. The initial phase of the study requires the

related literatures and studies, and standard specification as preparation for the design mix of the

concrete which was sourced in the Mapúa University library and scholastic papers. The next

phased was about the gathering of materials and equipment for the experiment which will also be

commenced in San Pedro, Laguna. The experiment will conform to the standard specification and

the design proportions of the researchers which was stated in Phase 4 to 6. Likely, for the testing

of controlled and treated samples, it will utilize the Universal Testing Machine (UTM) in a private

laboratory with this machine the compressive strength of the concrete cylinder with the varying

design mixture shall be determined. The strength variations of the concrete will be analyzed and

compared to evaluate the effectiveness of using bamboo and coconut fibers as an admixture.

Data Gathering Instruments

To complete and vitally examine the effectiveness of the study, there will be several tools

that the researchers will choose to collect, measure, and evaluate the data. Initially, the researchers

conducted thorough investigation and exploration of secondary sources such as thesis, research

publications, and standard specifications regarding the design mixture ratio for low-rise residential

building and the properties of bamboo and coconut fiber as an admixture for concrete.

Additionally, the researchers searched online for testing laboratories near their area and found one.

TERMS Concrete and Materials Testing Laboratory Inc. in 235 Emilio Aguinaldo Hwy, Salitran,

Dasmariñas, Cavite which is an accredited private testing laboratory of the Department of Public

42
Works and Highways (DPWH) would be the testing laboratory for the strength of the controlled

and treated concrete cylinders. The Universal Testing Machine (UTM) will be the primary testing

equipment of the study. Lastly, the primary quantitative data gathered from the laboratory test will

be computed using Microsoft Excel to carefully analyze and evaluate the distinctive design mix

between ordinary concrete and concrete with admixtures.

Statistical Treatment

The primary source of assessing the data will be from the results of the test from the

Universal Testing Machine (UTM) hence, the researchers will use the descriptive statistics in

furthering the explanation and analysis of the study. The results will be summarized and plotted to

visualize the differences of the variables. Likely, the x-axis will be the compressive failure of the

concrete (independent variable), while the ratio of design mixes will act as the dependent variable.

Further, to test and analyze the different strengths between the design mix of standard concrete

mix and concrete with admixtures for low-rise residential buildings the researchers will utilize

one-way variance (ANOVA test). For the economical evaluation of the controlled and treated

samples, a simple comparison of cost expenditure will be utilized.

43
 CHAPTER IV

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Before the compressive strength was measured using the UTM, the samples were mixed

with the standard ratio, 1:2:4, which is commonly used in low-rise residential construction. In

addition, a 6x12 concrete cylinder mold was utilized to ensure the adequate size of the sample used

in testing. These samples contain different amounts of bamboo and coconut fibers. Afterward, the

samples were cured for 3, 7, and 14 days. The variations used for the samples are the following:

VARIATION OF SAMPLES
14 days No 7 days No
A 0 B- 0 C 0 3 days No admixture
admixture admixture
7 days 0.5% of
14 days 0.5% of the 3 days 0.5% of the
the total weight
total weight of total weight of concrete
of concrete
A 1 concrete (bamboo and B 1 C 1 (bamboo and coconut
(bamboo and
coconut fiber) fiber)
coconut fiber)
7 days 1% of
14 days 1% of the 3 days 1% of the total
the total weight
total weight of weight of concrete
of concrete
A 2 concrete (bamboo and B 2 C 2 (bamboo and coconut
(bamboo and
coconut fiber) fiber)
coconut fiber)
7 days 1.5% of
14 days 1.5% of the 3 days 1.5% of the
the total weight
total weight of total weight of concrete
of concrete
A 3 concrete (bamboo and B 3 C- 3 (bamboo and coconut
(bamboo and
coconut fiber) fiber)
coconut fiber)
Table 4.1 Variation of Samples

44
 The researchers went to TERMS Concrete and Material Testing Laboratory Inc. to get the

necessary data. The samples were then compressed in the Universal Testing Machine (UTM). The

researchers also followed the ASTM standards for concrete testing. No problems were encountered

during the testing and the accuracy in the testing procedure is greatly observed.

The data gathered from samples cured for three days showed that the compressive strength

of C-0 (No added fiber) has a higher compressive strength than of the samples containing bamboo

and coconut fibers (C-1, C-2, and C-3).

Table 4.2. Compressive Strength of Sample Test Report (Day 3)

Compressive
Size Sample
Strength

Sample Machine
ID Date Age in Area Type of readier
Weight Dia. Length
Sampled Days (mm2) fracture (kN)
Psi MPa
(mm) (mm)

01/24/
C-0 3 13312 152.0 304 18145 Shear 301.2 2407 16.6
22

01/24/
C-1 3 12901 152.3 304.6 18217 Cone 290.9 2315 16.0
22

01/24/
C-2 3 13248 152.1 304.2 18169 Shear 211.5 1688 11.6
22

Cone
01/24/
C-3 3 13088 152.3 304.6 18217 and 216.0 1719 11.9
22
Split

Table 4.2. Compressive Strength of Sample Test Report (Day 3)

45
 For the test report on the seventh day, the data showed similarities compared with the data

gathered on the third day. The sample with no bamboo and coconut admixture, B-0, garnered the

highest compressive strength than samples B-1, B-2, B-3 having the same curing time.

Table 4.3. Compressive Strength of Sample Test Report (Day 7)

Compressive
Size Sample
Strength

Sample Machine
ID Date Age in Area Type of readier
Weight Dia. Length 2
Sampled Days (mm ) fracture (kN)
Psi MPa
(mm) (mm)

01/20/
B-0 7 13144 152.4 304.8 18241 Shear 317.9 2526 17.4
22
01/20/
B-1 7 12886 152.0 304 18145 Shear 183.7 1468 10.1
22
01/20/
B-2 7 13278 152.2 304.4 18193 Cone 210.8 1680 11.6
22
Cone
01/20/
B-3 7 13085 152.4 304.8 18241 and 220.4 1752 12.1
22
Split

Table 4.3. Compressive Strength of Sample Test Report (Day 7)

46
 Lastly, for the 14th day, the researchers noticed that sample A-1, containing 0.5%

admixture of bamboo and coconut fiber, showed the highest compressive strength. The fourteenth-

day samples suggested an increased in compressive strength from a sample with added bamboo

and coconut fiber compared to the third- and seventh-day samples.

Table 4.4. Compressive Strength of Sample Test Report (Day 14)

Compressive
Size Sample
Strength

Sample Machine
ID Date Age in Area Type of readier
Weight Dia. Length
Sampled Days (mm2) fracture (kN)
Psi MPa
(mm) (mm)

01/13/
A-0 14 13265 152.2 304.4 18193 Cone 231.4 1844 12.7
22
01/13/
A-1 14 13004 152.3 304.8 18241 Shear 251.0 1995 13.8
22
01/13/
A-2 14 12867 152.1 304.2 18169 Cone 203.8 1626 11.2
22
01/13/
A-3 14 12904 152.2 304.4 18193 Cone 165.9 1322 9.1
22
Ta

Table 4.4. Compressive Strength of Sample Test Report (Day 14)

47
One-Way Analysis of Variance Test (ANOVA Test)

One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test is utilized to show significant relationship

between two or more samples in an experiment. It is one of the most common tests used in treating

UTM results. The researchers utilized Microsoft Excel to analyze the data gathered from the

results.

Table 4.5. Anova data of Bamboo and Coconut husk fiber admixture

0 1 2 3

(No admixture) (0.5% (1% admixture) (1.5% admixture)

admixture)
1 1844 1995 1626 1322
2 2577 1468 1680 1752
3 2407 2315 1688 1719
Table 4.5 ANOVA data of Bamboo and Coconut husk fiber admixture

Table 4.6. Anova results for admixture

Sources of SS df MS F F critical p-value

variance
Between
812346.9167 3 270782.3056 2.893723059 4.066180551 0.1020
groups
Within
748606 8 93575.75
groups
Total 1560952.917 11
Table 4.6 ANOVA results for admixture

48
 The table shows the results of the analysis of variance (ANOVA) test. It can be seen that

the P- significant difference between

sample with no admixture, 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5%

3000

2500
Compressive Strength in Psi

2000

1500 3 days
7 days
1000 14 days

500

0
0 ( No admixture) 1 (0.5% admixture) 2 (1% admixture) 3 ( 1.5% admixture)
Bamboo and Coconut Admixture

Figure 4.1 Compressive Strength per Bamboo and Coconut Admixture

The figure above shows the comparison of the compressive strength with its corresponding

admixture per sample. The data showed decreased compressive strength when the amount of

admixture in the sample was increased. The x-axis corresponds to the bamboo and coconut

admixture and the y-axis showed the compressive strength of the sample in Psi.

49
 Table 4.7 Curing Time from ANOVA data

A B C

(14 days) (7 days) (3 days)

0 1844 psi 2527 psi 2407 psi

1 1995 psi 1468 psi 2315 psi
2 1626 psi 1680 psi 1688 psi
1719 psi
3 1322 psi 1752 psi

Table 4.7 Curing Time from ANOVA data

Table 4.8. Anova results from Curing Time

Sources of SS df MS F F critical p-value

variance
Between
225281 2 112640 0.759 4.2565 0.4959
groups
Within
1335672 9 148408
groups
Total 1560953 11
Table 4.8 ANOVA results for Curing time

Table 4.8 shows the results of the ANOVA test results. It can be seen that the P-value was

0.4959 cured for

three, seven, and 14 days.

50
 3000

2500
Compressive Strength in Psi

2000

0 ( No admixture)
1500
1 (0.5% admixture)
2 (1% admixture)
1000
3 ( 1.5% admixture)

500

0
3 days 7 days 14 days
Curing Time

Figure 4.2 Compressive Strength per Curing Time

The figure above shows the trend of the compressive strength per its corresponding curing

time. The data showed decreased compressive strength when the sample underwent a longer curing

process. The x-axis corresponds to the curing time of the sample and the y-axis showed the

compressive strength of the sample in Psi.

51
Cost Benefit Analysis

Table 4.9 Detailed Estimation for 2 Storey Duplex

Unit Price Total

Description Quantity Units Amount
(Php) (Php)
Ordinary Portland
220.07 bags 220.00 48,415.95
Cement
Coarse Sand 12.23 cu.m 1,200.00 14,671.50
Gravel 3/4 24.45 cu.m 1,200.00 29,343.00
Total 92,430.45
Bamboo Fiber 114.92 g 11.25 1,292.90
Coconut Husk
0.5% 114.92 g 50.00 5,746.24
Fiber

Caustic Soda 25 g 100.00 2,500.00

Total (with 1:2:4 ratio) 101,969.60

Bamboo Fiber 229.85 g 11.25 2,585.81

Coconut Husk
1.0% 229.85 g 50.00 11,492.48
Fiber

Caustic Soda 50 g 100.00 5,000.00

Total (with 1:2:4 ratio) 111,508.70

Bamboo Fiber 344.77 g 11.25 3,878.71

Coconut Husk
1.5% 344.77 g 50.00 17,238.71
Fiber

Caustic Soda 75 g 100.00 7,500.00

Total (with 1:2:4 ratio) 12,1047.90

Table 4.9 Detailed Estimation for 2 Storey Duplex

52
 Table 4.9 depicts the corresponding detailed estimation of the 2-Storey Duplex for the

concrete cement mixture. The estimation focuses only on the cement mixture of the residential

building's structural component, which includes the Ordinary Portland Cement, Coarse Sand,

Gravel, Bamboo fiber, Coconut Husk fiber, and Caustic Soda. For the standardized concrete

cement mixture, it has an estimation of Php 92,430.45 while the treated concrete cement mixture

of 0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5% has an estimation of Php 101,969.60, Php 111,508.70, and 121,547.90

respectively.

140,000.00

120,000.00

100,000.00

80,000.00

60,000.00

40,000.00

20,000.00

0.00
Total Estimation

0 (No admixture) 1 (0.5% admixture) 2 (1.% admixture) 3 (1.5% admixture)

Figure 4.3 Total Estimation of Concrete Mixture of Structural Works

The figure above shows the escalation in cost expenditure from standardized concrete

cement mixture to concrete cement mixture with corresponding admixtures. The base estimated

price for a structural work of low-rise residential standardized concrete cement mixture is Php

92,430.45. Thus, by using the base estimation price, the data showed an increase of 10.32%,

53
20.64%, and 30.96%, respectively, from the price rate to the added admixtures of the concrete

cement mixture.

54
 CHAPTER V

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

Conclusion

as an effective admixture to concrete mixtures with various mix proportions in a low-rise

residential house and evaluate its strength when subjected to compressive loads. Given that this

paper aims to find alternative admixtures that are natural and sustainable without compromising

the strength and quality of concrete, it is predicted that the chosen materials - bamboo and coconut

fiber- will perform their purpose similarly as the traditional admixtures do.

The experiment utilized a total of twelve samples of with four distinct mix proportions and

curing days. The mix proportions and testing method was determined based on the standard

specifications in construction. Since the study focuses on low-rise residential buildings, it falls

under Class A which is denoted by 1:2:4. While the concrete casting was done in accordance with

ACI 301 (Specification of Concrete in Buildings) and ACI 308.1 (Concrete Curing) for the right

technique of manufacturing cylindrical concrete to ensure its quality and effectiveness. To

determine the effect of the admixtures, the researchers used four distinct samples: a conventional

concrete mix, a concrete mix with 0.5 percent coconut and bamboo admixture, a concrete mix with

1 percent coconut and bamboo admixture, and a concrete mix with 1.5 percent coconut and

bamboo admixture. Three, seven, and fourteen days were used to cure each variant. These samples

were then subjected to compressive strength test using a UTM.

The results of the UTM compressive test indicated a pattern in the concrete's compressive

strength. Based on the UTM results, the compressive strength of the concrete gradually decreased

55
as the percentage of bamboo and coconut fiber increased. Moreover, the results were then analyzed

using a one-way ANOVA test to justify the significance of the relationship between the

compressive strength of concrete and the amount of bamboo and coconut fiber in the mixture. The

ANOVA test revealed no significant difference between samples with no admixture, 0.5%, 1%,

and 1.5% admixture per sample. Moreover, it showed a trend of the compressive strength per its

corresponding curing time. It shows that the compressive strength decreased when the sample was

exposed to a lengthier curing process.

On the other hand, the overall cost of a two-story duplex's concrete mixture of structural

works revealed an increase in cost from a standardized concrete cement mixture to a concrete

cement mixer with appropriate admixtures. The anticipated basic price for a low-rise residential

standardized concrete cement mixture structural work is Php 92,430.45. The findings showed an

increase of 10.32 %, 20.64%, and 30.96%, respectively, from the pricing rate to the added

admixtures of the concrete cement mixture when utilizing the base estimation price. Based

on the analyzed results from the UTM and ANOVA test, the researchers conclude that the

application of bamboo fiber and coconut fiber in concrete mixtures is not viable. The results

showed that the concrete mixture with no admixture still has greater compressive strength than the

mixtures with 0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5% of bamboo fiber and coconut fiber. The results can justify the

concrete's lower compressive strength when a percentage of bamboo and coconut fibers is added

to the mixture with a specific curing time.

56
Recommendation

Due to the pandemic constraints, the researchers had a hard time with the experimentation

leading to the drawbacks of limiting the number and curing age of the samples. Thus, the following

recommendation would allow improved changes and variations of quality data collection for future

researchers. The recommendations from the researchers are as follows:

To have an average result that can lead to more data precision, quintuplicate the samples

per concrete mix and curing age is suggested.

To provide a greater variety of data samples by increasing the parameter for the additional

admixture of bamboo and coconut husk fibers.

To prolong the curing age of the concrete cylinder to twenty-eight days. Thus, the curing

time parameters are three days, seven days, fourteen days, and twenty-eight days.

To calculate the aspect ratio of the fiber by measuring its length and diameter.

To test the increase of tension to prove the decrease of the compressive strength by using

the split cylinder test.

To add the reduction of rebars since the tension of the concrete mix increase on the cost

benefit analysis.

To utilize our economic source and alleviate waste by finding small income farmers that

grows bamboos and coconut trees.

57
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 APPENDIX A

Experimental Photos

66
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 APPENDIX B

Concrete Cylinder Testing

68
 APPENDIX C

Universal Testing Machine (UTM) Resul

69
 APPENDIX D

Structural Plan of 2-Storey Duplex

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 APPENDIX E

Computation of Concrete Cement Mixture (Structural Works) of 2-Storey Duplex

Slabs

Cement
Area Thk Volume Sand Gravel
Floor Label (40 kg per
(sqm) (m) (cu. m) (cu. m) (cu. m)
bag)
F1 GS 52.20 0.10 5.22 46.98 2.61 5.22
F2 S1 16.50 0.10 1.65 14.58 0.83 1.65
S2 26.30 0.10 2.63 23.67 1.32 2.63
Total 9.50 85.50 4.75 9.50
for Slab

Volume of Fibers for Slab

0.5 % of Volume 1.0 % of Volume 1.5 % of Volume

Coconut Coconut Coconut

Bamboo Bamboo Bamboo
Floor Label Husk Husk Husk
Fiber Fiber Fiber
fiber fiber fiber
(kg) (kg) (kg)
(kg) (kg) (kg)

F1 GS 3.13 3.13 6.26 6.26 9.40 9.40

F2 S1 0.99 0.99 1.98 1.98 2.97 2.97
S2 1.58 1.58 3.16 3.16 4.73 4.73
Total 5.70 5.70 11.40 11.40 17.10 17.10

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 APPENDIX F

Computation of Concrete Cement Mixture (Structural Works) of 2-Storey Duplex

for Columns

Columns

Cement Sand
No. b h Height Volume Gravel
Floor Label (40 kg (cu.
(pcs) (m) (m) (m) (cu. m) (cu. m)
per bag) m)
F1 C-1 4.00 0.15 0.4 6.80 1.63 14.69 0.82 1.63
F2 C-2 5.00 0.15 0.4 6.80 2.04 18.36 1.02 2.04
Total 3.67 33.05 1.84 3.67

Volume of Fibers for Columns

0.5 % of Volume 1.0 % of Volume 1.5 % of Volume

Coconut Coconut Coconut

Bamboo Bamboo Bamboo
Floor Label Husk Husk Husk
Fiber Fiber Fiber
fiber fiber fiber
(kg) (kg) (kg)
(kg) (kg) (kg)
F1 C-1 0.98 0.98 1.96 1.96 2.94 2.94
F2 C-2 1.22 1.22 2.45 2.45 3.67 3.67
Total 5.70 2.20 2.20 4.41 4.41 6.61

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 APPENDIX G

Computation of Concrete Cement Mixture (Structural Works) of 2-Storey Duplex

for Footing

Table 4.10 Footing

Cement
Sand
No. width Length Height Volume Gravel
Floor Label (40 kg
(cu.
(pcs) (m) (m) (m) (cu. m) per (cu. m)
m)
bag)
F-1 4.00 1.00 1.00 0.30 1.20 10.80 0.60 1.20
Foundation F-2 3.00 1.20 1.20 0.35 1.51 13.61 0.76 1.51
F-3 2.00 1.60 1.60 0.40 2.05 18.43 1.02 2.05
Total 4.67 42.84 2.38 4.67

Table 4.10 Volume of Fibers for Footing

0.5 % of Volume 1.0 % of Volume 1.5 % of Volume

Coconut Coconut Coconut

Bamboo Bamboo Bamboo
Floor Label Husk Husk Husk
Fiber Fiber Fiber
fiber fiber fiber
(kg) (kg) (kg)
(kg) (kg) (kg)
F-1 0.72 0.72 1.44 1.44 2.16 2.16
Foundation F-2 0.91 0.91 1.81 1.81 2.72 2.72
F-3 1.23 1.23 2.46 2.46 3.69 3.69
Total 5.70 2.86 2.86 5.71 5.71 8.57

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 APPENDIX H

Computation of Concrete Cement Mixture (Structural Works) of 2-Storey Duplex

for Beams and Girders

Table 4.10 Beam and Girders

Cement Sand
Length b h Volume Gravel
Floor Label (40 kg (cu.
(m) (m) (m) (cu. m) (cu. m)
per bag) m)

F1 GB 33.00 0.15 0.30 1.49 13.37 0.74 1.49

F2 B1 35.40 0.15 0.40 2.12 19.12 1.06 2.12
F2 B2 9.40 0.20 0.30 0.56 5.08 0.28 0.56
F2 B3 7.40 0.20 0.30 0.44 4.00 0.22 0.44
RF RB 42.30 0.15 0.30 1.90 17.13 0.95 1.90
Total 6.52 58.68 3.26 6.52

Table 4.10 Volume of Fibers for Beam and Girder

0.5 % of Volume 1.0 % of Volume 1.5 % of Volume

Coconut Coconut Coconut

Bamboo Bamboo Bamboo
Floor Label Husk Husk Husk
Fiber Fiber Fiber
fiber fiber fiber
(kg) (kg) (kg)
(kg) (kg) (kg)
F1 GB 8.02 8.02 16.04 16.04 24.06 24.06
F2 B1 11.47 11.47 22.94 22.94 34.41 34.41
F2 B2 3.05 3.05 6.09 6.09 9.14 9.14
F2 B3 2.40 2.40 4.80 4.80 7.19 7.19
RF RB 10.28 10.28 20.56 20.56 30.84 30.84
Total 35.21 35.21 70.42 70.42 105.63 105.63

78
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