STRENGTH BEHAVIOR OF FIBER REINFORCED CONCRETE USING SYNTHETIC

POLYPROPYLENE FIBER AS ADDITIVE TO CONCRETE MIXTURE FOR BEAM

DESIGN

Aurora State College of Technology

School of Engineering

Joshua V. Manahan
Jerico A. Marigmen
Romer C. Permejo
Frances Leanne P. Ramos

Bachelor Of Science in Civil Engineering

2023

STRENGTH BEHAVIOR OF FIBER REINFORCED CONCRETE USING SYNTHETIC

POLYPROPYLENE FIBER AS ADDITIVE TO CONCRETE MIXTURE FOR BEAM
DESIGN

A Thesis
Presented to the Faculty of the School of Engineering
Aurora State College of Technology
Baler, Aurora

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree

Of Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering Major in
Construction Engineering and Management
 By:
Joshua V. Manahan
Jerico A. Marigmen
Romer C. Permejo
Frances Leanne P. Ramos

2023
ABSTRACT

Title : Strength Behavior of Fiber Reinforced Concrete

using Synthetic Polypropylene Fiber as Additive
to Concrete Mixture for Beam Design

Researchers : Frances Leanne P. Ramos

Jerico A. Marigmen
Joshua V. Manahan
Romer C. Permejo

Degree : Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

School : Aurora State College of Technology
Year : 2023
Key words : Polypropylene fiber, Concrete mixture,
Beam design, Structural Design, Additives.

A normal strength concrete matrix with fiber volumetric contents

was created using polypropylene fibers. The purpose of this
research is to investigate and learn about the structural
behavior of fiber reinforced concrete using synthetic
polypropylene fiber. The polypropylene fiber-reinforced concrete
was tested to determine the behavior of fiber as an additive for
concrete mixtures for beam design. The purpose of this paper is
to present a focused analysis study on the influence of natural
and synthetic fibers on the fresh and mechanical properties of
concrete. As part of this study, various tests will be carried
out to follow the description of the measured aggregate
characteristics, mix designs, and concrete properties. This paper
intends to learn about the strength behavior of Polypropylene
fiber as an additive to concrete mixture for beam design. This
study will be beneficial and cost effective because the addition
of polypropylene fiber in appropriate ratios to concrete mixtures
improves the durability properties of the elements.
We all know that the polypropylene fiber increases the energy
absorption capacity of concrete mixtures while decreasing plastic
shrinkage cracks. Furthermore, in addition for elaboration the
purpose of this study is to provide a comprehensive study on the
benefits, workability, durability, and dimensional stability of
polypropylene fiber. Compressive, tensile, and flexural
strengths, modulus of elasticity, flexural crack and post-
cracking behavior, drying shrinkage-based length change, and
impact strength of fibrous concrete mixtures are all thoroughly
discussed.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
ABSTRACT …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
TABLE OF CONTENTS …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
LIST OF FIGURES ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Chapter 1 ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND ………………………………………………………………………………
INTRODUCTION …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY ……………………………………………………………………………………
CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK ……………………………………………………………………………………………
STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM …………………………………………………………………………………
SCOPE AND LIMITATION OF THE STUDY …………………………………………………………
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY ………………………………………………………………………………
OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY ……………………………………………………………………………………
Chapter 2 ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE ……………………………………………………………………………………
INTRODUCTION …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
METHODOLOGY ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
DISCUSSION ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
RESEARCH GAPS ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
CONCLUSION ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Chapter 3 ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY …………………………………………………………………………………………………………
RESEARCH DESIGN …………………………………………………………………………………………………………
 RESEARCH PROCESS ………………………………………………………………………………………………………
MATERIAL REQUIREMENT ……………………………………………………………………………………………
MIX DESIGN ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
SPECIMEN DETAILS ………………………………………………………………………………………………………
LABORATORY/EXPERIMENT/FIELD EXPERIMENT ……………………………………………
DESCRIPTION OF RESEARCH INSTRUMENT USED …………………………………………
REFERENCES ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1. Conceptual Framework

Figure 2. Flowchart of Research Design
 CHAPTER 1
THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND
This chapter presents and discusses the introduction of the
problems of the study and its environment, as well as the
significance and limitations of this research.

INTRODUCTION
Concrete is the most used building material in the world,
with its consumption more than doubling that of wood, steel,
aluminum, and plastics combined. Concrete-related activities
generate millions of job opportunities worldwide and contribute
significantly to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of most of the
world's economies. As one of the foundations of large commercial
industries, it is the most widely used man-made product in the
world and a global economic mover. Cement, aggregates, and water
combine to form concrete. Fine and coarse aggregates are
combined. A composite material is created by combining cement,
typically Portland cement, and water. Cement and water combine to
create the paste used to hold the aggregates together. The paste-
aggregate mixture hardens after mixing. Hydration, a chemical
process, gives it the strength to form rock-like masses. Water
interacts with the matrix of the composite material formed by
cement, and the hydration of the paste improves the bond of the
other components. components and gives the mix more strength over
time. The resulting product is one of the most long-lasting
Building materials such as concrete structures have a service
life of up to 100 years. The concrete matrix in the composite
material absorbs compressive stress and protects the composite
material. steel can distribute the tensile stresses that cause
concrete to crack while protecting the reinforcement from
corrosion and eventually fail. This adaptable composite material
has been one of the most important materials used for several
years. This study investigates the structural behavior of
polypropylene fiber added to lightweight reinforced concrete
experimentally because such research is lacking in the published
literature. The behavior of reinforced concrete was investigated
in this study. Concrete beams (RCB) with Polypropylene fibers are
being researched. Its impact on development Cracks in concrete
and reinforced concrete are also investigated. The experiment
results and conclusions are presented. to demonstrate the
effectiveness of using polypropylene fibers in Concrete that is
light in weight.
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
When subjected to tensile stress and impact load, concrete
is known to be a brittle material, with tensile strength
approximately one-tenth of its compressive strength. As a result,
concrete members are unable to withstand the typical loads and
stresses placed on concrete structural members. The properties of
the fibers, such as diameter, specific gravity, Young's modulus,
tensile strength, and the extent to which these fibers affect the
properties of the cement matrix, determine the type of fibers
used as reinforcement. Some studies have examined the effect of
polypropylene fiber on the compressive strength of concrete, and
they found that polypropylene fiber either decreases or increases
the compressive strength of concrete, but the overall effect is
negligible in most cases. Many researchers reported that a small
volume fraction of polypropylene fiber (between 0.05% and 0.5%)
has no or very little effect on the compressive strength of
fiber-reinforced concrete. [1]
 CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
This section shows a concept that outlines the process of
assessing the strength and compatibility of polypropylene fiber
as an additive to concrete mixture.

INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT

1. Gathering
Materials of
Polypropylene
fiber for mixture
1. Construction of 1. Beam Design
of concrete in
Beam design with
beam design
Polypropylene 2. Strength of
2. Concrete fiber as an Beam Design using
mixture of Beam additive. Polypropylene
Design and Testing Fiber as an
2. Performance, additive.
Instruments.
Evaluation and
3. Compare the Strength Test. 3. Results and
strength of normal Discussion.
3. Data Analysis
concrete mixture
and the mixture
with polypropylene
fibers.

Figure 1. Conceptual Framework

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
This study aims to assess the strength and compatibility of
polypropylene fiber as an additive to concrete mixture.
To obtain all the essential data and information needed,
this study sought to answer the following:
1. What are the factors that should be considered when adding
Polypropylene fibers to the concrete mixtures in terms of
beam design?

2. What are the properties of the polypropylene fiber have that

can attribute to the betterment of the concrete mixture in
terms of beam design?

3. How can the Polypropylene fibers be an additive mixture

despite it is a highly flammable material?

SCOPE AND DELIMITATION OF THE STUDY

This study focused on the strength and availability of
polypropylene fiber as an additive to concrete mixture, in
addition to examination and testing of the said material. The
dimension of beam is 152 x 152 x 508 mm (6 x 6 x 20 inch).
The materials are easily accessible since they can be
obtained from the Province of Aurora.
This study will be conducted in Aurora Province, while the
performance evaluation of the recycled concrete and demolition
waste will be tested at Aurora District Engineering Office –
DPWH.

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

This study conducted to know the mechanical properties of
polypropylene fiber added to concrete. The importance of this
study is to evaluate and test the strength and behavior of
polypropylene fiber additive for the construction of beams.
Furthermore, the result of this study will be a great benefit and
highly significant to the following individuals and group of
people:
To the Community. This study will help the community to recognize
and know that the polypropylene can be an additive in concrete to
increase the strength of concrete. And it also can help the
community by being wise in adding fiber to enhance the strength
of concrete into a beneficial activity.
To the Environment. This study will help the environment by
preserving our nature and making waste products into an effective
and helpful way to our environment and also to the people. It can
be considered as a recycling process.
To the Civil Engineering Student. This study will be a guide for
future civil engineering students, especially if they will
conduct study related to this topic.
To the Future Researchers. The result of this study can help the
them in their future study regarding this topic. This can serve
as a guide or can be used as related study for the research that
they will conduct in the future.

OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

The general objective of the study is to experiment, make
and evaluate concrete mixture in Beam design with Polypropylene
fiber as an additive. When subjected to dynamic load at high
strain rates, particularly from the different acting on the beam,
polypropylene fiber reinforced concrete (PPFRC). In this study,
PP fiber was used in the concrete mixture used in the beam
construction. The addition of PP fibers to concrete could help to
prevent microcracks. Specifically, the study aims to:
1. Construct a concrete beam design using polypropylene fiber as
an additive.
2. Test the performance of the finished product in terms of its
compressive strength.
3. Identify the impact and compatibility of polypropylene fiber
on the strength of concrete.
 CHAPTER 2
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
This chapter gives a summary of prior research studies on
the strength behavior of fiber reinforced concrete using
synthetic polypropylene fiber as additive to concrete mixture for
beam design.

INTRODUCTION
Polypropylene fiber can be used as an alternate material for
increasing the strength of concrete. The physical and chemical
properties of Polypropylene fiber make it suitable to substitute
for fine aggregates because of the amount of calcium carbonate
present they are considered a good option. The Polypropylene
fiber benefits the construction industry and the waste industry
at the same time [3]. High Performance Concrete (HPC) is a type
of concrete that has been specifically designed for a particular
application. Ensuring that it will perform admirably for the
duration of the structure's design life, as well as in the
environment and under the loads that it will be subjected to [4].
Cement is a common building material Because of its unique
properties, this cement is ideal for making concrete. It is
fragile, with a low tension but a high compression [5]. Micro
cracks form in concrete during the early stages of hardening
because of environmental and load changes [5]. Loading causes
them to crack, raising the brittle fracture force at the time
fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC) was developed. Because of the
fibers used, the impact strength of concrete is increased to keep
the surface from cracking [4]. Initial research focused on FRCs
with a single fiber type, which resulted in better concrete
characteristics. Recently, research has focused on fiber
hybridization, which combines metallic and non-metallic materials
fibers. Recently, research has concentrated on fiber
hybridization, which involves the combination of metallic and
non-metallic fibers. Steel Fibers and other metallic fibers can
improve the tensile, toughness, and stiffness of a material. PPF
fibers are beneficial [5]. Elasticity, mixing capacity, and
resistance are all examples of properties. The combination of two
materials results in Composite Fiber Reinforced Concrete.
specific fibers to the concrete [4]. Previously, fibers were used
as reinforcement. Horsehair is used in mortars, while fiber is
used in brick mud. Since the 1950s, FRC has grown in popularity.
Glass, steel, and synthetic fibers were important in the 1960s.
Fibers play an important role in preventing cracking caused by
both drying and plastic shrinkage [4]. Expanded polypropylene
concrete is a novel lightweight material. Building material with
good mechanical properties and a priori mechanical features
suitable for the building trade [6]. Investigates the mechanical
properties of concrete and how they relate to the concrete matrix
and particle size. In this case, paper, tensile strength, and
flexural strength (FS) of polypropylene concrete with varying
particle sizes were compared. A CS test is performed based on the
results of the CS tests. It was suggested that expression be used
During the loading process up to uni-axial compressive failure,
ultrasonic testing was performed [5].

METHODOLOGY
This quantitative study aims to identify data and design for
polypropylene fiber as an additive to concrete mixture. This
research looks at the strength and durability of polypropylene
fiber as an additive to concrete mixtures for beam design.
Polypropylene fiber is one of the main materials that researchers
want to test to see if it is effective as a concrete additive. It
will be evaluated using experimental investigations into its
strength and durability, as well as strength and durability
tests.

Research Questions
RQ1. What are the factors that should be considered when adding
Polypropylene fibers to the concrete mixtures in terms of beam
design?
RQ2. What are the properties of the polypropylene fiber have that
can attribute to the betterment of the concrete mixture in terms
of beam design?
RQ3. How can the Polypropylene fibers be an additive mixture
despite it is a highly flammable material?

DISCUSSIONS
With the growing demand in the building or construction
industry. Polypropylene fiber in the concrete mixture for beam
design is an important factor that can affect overall cost and
construction quality. Every stage of the cement production
process has a significant environmental impact. PPFs offer the
advantages of being lightweight and easy to handle, as well as
having a low cost, low thermal conductivity, acid and alkali
resistance, and so on. Because of these properties, PPFs are
better suited for use in concrete. How polypropylene fiber become
effective and be a tool/material to design beam? As a result,
this will become a sustainable construction material, reducing
the use of raw materials indirectly. This, to the best of our
knowledge, is the first study focused on improving concrete self-
healing are used to modify the intrinsic properties of fibers
[8]. How efficient and able the strength behavior of
polypropylene fiber as an additive to concrete mixture to design
beam? According to different studies from researchers,
Polypropylene fiber has a significant benefit and impact in the
strength and durability of concrete. Many studies state that
incorporating PP fibers into the mix is one of the most effective
solutions to reduce the risk of exposure concrete or mortar
spilling to a high heat. Concrete fire behavior studies can be
conducted [9]. Furthermore, because concrete pavement is directly
exposed to changing weather conditions, The effect of temperature
change on the performance of pavement concrete in the environment
should also be given consideration, particularly when
constructing a concrete pavement in an area characterized by
extreme low temperatures [10]. Polypropylene fiber is a highly
reactive clay that has been the subject of numerous studies.
Polypropylene fiber with high reactivity is a newly developed
material for achieving high concrete strength [11]. It simply
converts the material to the PP phase, which is an amorphous alum
silicate Polypropylene fiber has been refined carefully to remove
impurities, control particle size, and lighten color like other
industrial products such as Silica fume, blast furnace slag, and
fly ash[3]. What are the positive and negative effects of
polypropylene fiber in construction specifically in constructing
beam design? PP Fiber has a big positive impact as an additives
to construction mixture but we all know that it has also a
negative impact while using this material With so many experts
looking into the usage of Polypropylene in concrete, some of them
need further research for advancement. According to the
literature review conducted by[12]. Polypropylene fiber has been
extensively researched and used in concrete applications. It is
well-known for its high tensile strength and ability to improve
the crack resistance of concrete. Furthermore, polypropylene
fibers have been discovered to improve the freeze-thaw durability
of concrete[13]. However, excessive fiber incorporation can cause
clumping and entanglement of the fibers, reducing their
efficiency in reducing the porosity of the concrete. Overall, the
addition of polypropylene fiber to concrete has a dominant effect
on controlling the development of micro cracks in the early
stages, improving crack resistance and structure durability[20].
Polypropylene fiber is a remarkable material with numerous
applications in a variety of industries[14]. So, while
polypropylene has many advantages, it cannot perfectly enhance
all properties of concrete; some properties may be overlooked and
have a negative impact. This study, however, does not only focus
on the positive aspects, but also tests all possible outcomes.
RESEARCH GAPS
Subject Research Gap Research Future
Questions Research
Polypropylene Crack Is Analyze and prove of
fiber resistance of Polypropylene Polypropylene fiber
concrete fiber can can help to lessen
perform and the cracks in
observed Crack concrete, by
resistance of performing
concrete? examination and
test.
Strength and tensile How Tensile Conduct an
Durability strength strength can examination or
help test that will
construction show the
field in effectiveness
constructing of tensile
beam? strength in
constructing
beam design
with the help
of PP’s fiber.
Polypropylene Disasters, How the Conduct research and
fiber storms concrete become investigation into
experienced of more effective the strength and
the concrete a midst of assistance of
with disasters? polypropylene fiber
polypropylene in disaster
fiber. construction.

CONCLUSION

With the study to know the Strength Behavior of fiber

reinforced concrete using synthetic Polypropylene fiber as
Additive to concrete mixture for beam design, several literature
reviews conclude that, with proper measurements and experiments,
polypropylene can help to improve the strength and some
properties of concrete. The addition of polypropylene fiber at
this content level resulted in greater structural integrity and
durability in the concrete. It has also been discovered that the
use of synthetic organic fibers, such as polypropylene fiber, can
reduce shrinkage cracks in concrete and improve its working
properties, performance and ductility. Furthermore, it has been
demonstrated that polypropylene fiber-based concrete improves the
wear resistance, impermeability, and tensile strength of fiber-
reinforced high-performance concrete. On this material we can
say that it is economical because polypropylene is not expensive
and it can lowers the cost of construction materials. Using
polypropylene in concrete has advantages beyond its strength and
durability; by using this material, it helps also protect the
environment. The findings demonstrated that polypropylene could
be used to make lightweight concrete. Both studies found that
adding PPF to specimens improves their spalling resistance when
compared to control specimens and specimens with a lower fiber
dosage. Concrete is the primary waste recycling product materials
and sanitizing the environment the development of this project
not only will benefit the researchers but also be beneficial to
the construction industry. It is then critical for the creation
of the study to use the conclusions from various literature
reviews that have been gathered. These literature reviews will
help you understand the concept of polypropylene as an additive
to concrete mixtures and assess some data on its strength
behaviors.
 Chapter 3
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
This chapter describes the research methods utilized for
this study. It also includes the approach and instruments used to
collect data.

RESEARCH DESIGN
This study used a quantitative approach to attain greater
knowledge, observe situations and produces objective data that
can be clearly communicated. Quantitative research is the process
of collecting and analyzing numerical data. It can be used to
find patterns and averages, make predictions, test causal
relationships, and generalize results to wider populations. It is
used to examine the relationship between variable by using
numbers and statistics to explain and analyze its findings. One
of the types of Quantitative Research Design that is used in this
study is the Experimental Design Research. This is a method used
to establish a cause and effect relationship between two
variables or among a group of variables. The independent variable
is manipulated to observe the effect on the depended variable.
The Experimental Research Design helps the researcher to test and
evaluate the strength and compatibility of polypropylene fiber
when added to concrete, conducting scientific experiments to
investigate the research questions. It helps the researchers to
gather the necessary data for making better research decisions
and determining the facts of a research study.
As shown in the figure, to evaluate the strength and
compatibility of polypropylene fiber as an additive to concrete,
the study implements a quantitative approach using experimental
research design that will use as a process to investigate and
gather the necessary data. In this process, researchers gathered
data from existing mixture of concrete and having another mixture
using polypropylene fiber as an additive that would be used for
beam design. As shown in the figure, the flowchart of research
design. The general process of how the research will flow. It
starts in topic selection, why we conduct and process this topic
and after assessing and selecting the topic of our choice. The
researchers identify the research problems with accord to the
topic. What are the main points and problems that researchers
should address and the research questions that’s been solved and
answer. The background of the research and more information
regarding this topic. All the review of literature that is
related to the topic that would be used supporting article to the
topic. Quantitative approach is the research design that would be
used. And using an experimental research design to test and
evaluate the strength and compatibility of polypropylene Fiber as
an additive concrete mixture for beam design. Gathering of
Information and analyze all the information available. Before
doing the experimentation and detail process as the procedure of
concrete mixture, the researcher gathers the material first and

proceed to the process of research. Once the process of research

is all done, and tested. The interpretation and findings of
research will be discussed to conclude the result of the test and
answer the questions. Once all of this are done, and the adviser
approved it. The report, presentation or publication will be
done.
Figure 1. Flowchart of Research Design
RESEARCH PROCESS
The experiment of using Polypropylene Fiber as an additive
to Concrete mixture that would be used for beam design start with
the extraction process of polypropylene. The crushed
polypropylene fiber is already available in shoppee and other
store here in Aurora. Polypropylene Fiber can be more beneficial
to concrete mixture because it can improve the strength of
concrete because of it’s availability. Once the Polypropylene
fiber is done and prepared. Next is the Aggregates, in Mortar and
Plastering, the aggregates that would be use is the fine
aggregates. The separation of sand and gravel will be done
manually using “salandra”. Once all the materials are ready
including cement and water, the mixture of concrete will begin.
The mixture is then mixed using shovels.
In order for the researchers to determine the strength or
compressive strength of the mixture. The researchers will request
their product to be tested at the DPWH- Aurora District
Engineering Office.

MATERIAL REQUIREMENT
1. Cement
Ordinary Portland Cement refers to the hydraulic binding material
used in mixing to form cements. Ordinary Portland Cement of 53
grade will be used in the experimental research. Each bag weighs
40 kg.
2. Aggregates
Aggregates is called bound material when it is mixed with cement
or binding materials and referred to as unbound material when
used without cement or binding materials.

3. Polypropylene Fiber
Polypropylene (PP) fibers are a set of synthetic fibers with
certain features that make them a great addition to construction
materials, especially when concrete is needed.

MIX DESIGN
To acquire the desire strength, durability and consistency
and achieve the acceptable workability of concrete mixture for
beam design. The researcher used the Standard Test Method for
Flexural Strength of Concrete, using Simple Beam with Third-Point
Loading and using Simple Beam with Center-Point Loading. The
minimum concrete strength for beams is 25 MPa or 3625 psi and the
maximum concrete strength is 40 MPa, 5800 psi.
Hence, this will be the targeted strength. The researchers will
use a ratio of 1:1.5:3 (cement: sand: aggregate).

Polypropylene fiber Additive Concrete Mixture Ratios:

1. 0% Polypropylene fiber
2. 5% Polypropylene fiber
3. 10% Polypropylene fiber
4. 15% Polypropylene fiber
5. 20% Polypropylene fiber

Polypropylene fiber characteristics:

 Polypropylene is known to have a high melting point, making

it an ideal material for the construction of microwave-
friendly containers.
 Polypropylene is chemically resistant towards water,
alkalis, and acids.
 This polymer is also quite resistant to stress and cracking,
even when it is flexed. This is the reason why polypropylene
is widely used in the construction of hinges.
 Polypropylene exhibits high resistance to wear and tear.
Therefore, this polymer is highly durable.

SPECIMEN DETAILS
This part of the study shows the details of specimen samples
used to determine initial data that the researchers will use in
determining the flexural strength of concrete.
Specimen dimension:
- 152 x 152 x 508 mm (6 x 6 x 20 inch)
Base composition:
- Ordinary Portland Cement
- Aggregates
- Polypropylene fibers
- Water
Fabrication method:
 - Square mold
- 7,14, and 28-days curing time
Testing Parameters:
- Testing Machine
- Loading Apparatus

LABORATORY/EXPERIMENT/FIELD EXPERIMENT
The researchers will perform a Standard Test Method for
Flexural Strength of Concrete, using Simple Beam with Center-
Point Loading and using Simple Beam with Third-Point Loading. In
using Simple Beam with Center Point Loading Method is used to
determine the modulus of rupture of specimens prepared and cured
in accordance with Practices C31/C31M or C192/C192M. The strength
determined will vary where there are differences in specimen
size, preparation, moisture condition, or curing. And using
Simple Beam with Third-Point Loading Method is used to determine
the flexural strength of specimens prepared and cured in
accordance with Test Methods C42/C42M or Practices C31/C31M or
C192/ C192M. Results are calculated and reported as the modulus
of rupture. For the same specimen size, the strength determined
will vary if there are differences in specimen preparation,
curing procedure, moisture condition at time of testing, and
whether the beam was molded or sawed to size.
Standard Test Method for Flexural Strength of Concrete Procedure:
(Using Simple Beam with Center Point Loading)

 Flexural tests of moist-cured specimens shall be made as

soon as practical after removal from moist storage. Surface
drying of the specimen results in a reduction in the
measured modulus of rupture
 Turn the test specimen on its side with respect to its
position as molded and center it on the support blocks.
Center the loading system in relation to the applied force.
 Bring the load-applying block in contact with the surface of
the specimen at the center and apply a load of between 3 and
6 % of the estimated ultimate load.
 Using 0.10 mm [0.004 in.] and 0.40mm [0.015 in.] leaf-type
feeler gages, determine whether any gap between the specimen
and the load-applying or support blocks is greater or less
than each of the gages over a length of 25 mm [1 in.] or
more.
 Grind, cap, or use leather shims on the specimen contact
surface to eliminate any gap in excess of 0.10 mm [0.004
in.].
  Load the specimen continuously and without shock. The load
shall be applied at a constant rate to the breaking point.
Apply the load so that the maximum stress on the tension
face increases at a rate between 0.9 and 1.2 MPa/min [125
and 175 psi/min].
(Using Simple Beam with Third Point Loading)

 Moist-cured specimens shall be kept moist during the period

between removal from moist storage and testing.
 When using molded specimens, turn the test specimen on its
side with respect to its position as molded and center it on
the support blocks.
 When using sawed specimens, position the specimen so that
the tension face corresponds to the top or bottom of the
specimen as cut from the parent material.
 Center the loading system in relation to the applied force.
Bring the load-applying blocks in contact with the surface
of the specimen at the third points and apply a load of
between 3 and 6 % of the estimated ultimate load.
 Using 0.10 mm [0.004 in.] and 0.40 mm [0.015 in.] leaf-type
feeler gages, determine whether any gap between the specimen
and the load-applying or support blocks is greater or less
than each of the gages over a length of 25 mm [1 in.] or
more.
 Grind, cap, or use leather shims on the specimen contact
surface to eliminate any gap in excess of 0.10 mm [0.004
in.] in width.
 Load the specimen continuously and without shock. The load
shall be applied at a constant rate to the breaking point.
Apply the load at a rate that constantly increases the
maximum stress on the tension face between 0.9 and 1.2
MPa/min [125 and 175 psi/min] until rupture occurs.

DESCRIPTION OF RESEARCH INSTRUMENT USED

In order to determine if Polypropylene fiber can be used as
an additive material to concrete mixture, the researchers
conducted an experimental research design. This experimental
research aims to determine the potential of polypropylene fiber
as an additive to concrete mixture to improve and enhance the
strength of concrete for beam design. Polypropylene fiber will be
added by the ratios of 0%, 5%, 10%, 15% and 20% by cement weight.
152 x 152mm rectangular board samples of 508mm thickness. We used
this method to determine the best ratio to achieve the acquire
strength of concrete.
 REFERENCES

[1] A. Almeida Del Savio, D. La Torre, and J. P. Cedrón,

“Experimental Volume Incidence Study and the Relationship of
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