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BANANA FIBER (MUSA SEPIENTUM) AS REINFORCEMENT ON CONCRETE

College of Engineering and Architecture

BOHOL ISLAND STATE UNIVERSITY
Main campus, Tagbilaran city

Kleint T. Ocial
Ray PG F. Alcala
Joseph Karl B. Dungog
Patrick B. Unajan

December 2019
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BANANA FIBER (MUSA SEPIENTUM) AS REINFORCEMENT ON CONCRETE

______________
(14 spaces)

A Thesis Presented to the Faculty of the College of Engineering and Architecture

BOHOL ISLAND STATE UNIVERSITY
Main Campus, Tagbilaran City

______________
(14 spaces)

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements of the Degree

Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

______________
(14 spaces)

Kleint T. Ocial
Ray PG F. Alcala
Joseph Karl B. Dungog
Patrick B. Unajan

December 2019
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APPROVAL SHEET

This thesis entitled BANANA FIBER (MUSA SEPIENTUM) AS

REINFORCEMENT ON CONCRETE, prepared and submitted by Kleint T. Ocial,
Ray PG F. Alcala, Joseph Karl B. Dungog, and Patrick B. Unajan in partial
fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Science in Civil
Engineering has been examined and recommended for acceptance and approval
for Proposal Hearing.

THESIS COMMITTEE

MARIA JECECHA L. MORIGO, MEng-CE

Department Chair

MARIA NEMIA L. MALATE, MAEd MILDRED P. CABAGNOT, MS Math

Editor Adviser

Approval by the examining Panel during the Proposal Hearing conducted

on November 21, 2019 with a rating of ______.

EXAMINING PANEL

JULIUS C. CASTRO, MEng, CpE

Chair

MARIA JECECHA L. MORIGO, MEng-CE NENITA M. ABARADO, PhD

Member Member

SIME O. CAMANSE, MEng-CE JOHN POL IGAGAMAO, CE

Member Member

Accepted and approved as partial fulfillment of the requirements of the

Degree in Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering.

November 21, 2019 ERNESTO C. RULIDA, PhD

Date of Proposal Hearing Campus Director
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ACKNOWLEDGMENT

At the highest pedestal, all thanks and praises to Almighty God for His

bountiful blessings throughout the research work to complete successfully.

The researchers would like to extend their sincere gratitude to a few

noteworthy people for their support and helping hands. Without these people, this

academic endeavor would not have been a success. Sincere thanks and

acknowledgement are humbly given to the following:

To Engr. Mary Ann M. Quiobe, University Research Director, for giving

them the opportunity to do the study and providing guidance all throughout the

research work.

To Dr. Ernesto C. Rulida, Campus Director, for allowing them to conduct

the study outside the school campus.

To Engr. Julius C. Castro, the College Dean, for his genuine support

throughout the research work.

To Engr. Mildred P. Cabagnot, the research adviser, it was indeed a

privilege to work and study under her guidance. Her motivation, sincerity and

vision have inspired the researchers and they are very grateful for what she has

offered. The researchers would also thank her for her time, patience, friendship

and motherly support in the success of this study.

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To Engr. John Pol T. Igagamao, the research instructor, a deep thanks for

his guidance and sharing his knowledge in thesis-making.

To Miss Maria Nemia L. Malate, the English editor, for her patience and

effort in editing the manuscripts for grammatical errors.

To Dr. Joseph I. Saligan, the research statistician, for sharing his expertise

in analyzing and interpreting the statistical data.

To Engr. Alnel Sescon, for being so approachable and for not hesitating to

answer every time the researcher ask.

To Dungog family for being so accommodating and allowing them to

conduct the study in their residence.

To Aunt Dulce Cagata & Family, for sponsoring the prints of manuscripts.

The researchers are extremely thankful to their parents for the guidance,

love, prayer, sacrifices in educating and helping them with understanding and

unending support especially financial to complete the research work.

Finally, their gratitude goes to all the people who supported them to

complete this study.

The Researchers
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ABSTRACT
(3 Spaces)

 1 Paragraph with 250-300 words; Full block

 Note: Must contain the following: Main Problem, Sub-problems, Hypothesis,
Research Methodology, Findings, Conclusions, and Recommendations
 Single Space; 1 page only

Rationale
Objectives
Environment and Participants (Optional)
Methodology
Results/Findings
Recommendations

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the flexural strength of concrete with
and without banana fiber reinforcements and compare it with the performance of
concrete with steel reinforcing bars. Tensile testing of banana rope fiber was also
conducted in order to know what diameter has the optimum tensile strength and
see if it could support the result of the flexural strength of concrete with banana
fiber reinforcements. The researchers used 3mm, 7mm, 10mm and 12mm of
banana fiber reinforcements. Experimental design was used in conducting the
study. Making of concrete beam sample was conducted at Dungog’s residence
and testing the flexural strength of concrete was conducted at EB Testing
Material. The tensile testing of banana fiber rope was conducted at ASTEC
Material Testing Corp. The smallest diameter of banana fiber reinforcement gives
the optimum flexural strength of concrete. Based on the findings of the study, the
researchers concluded that banana fiber reinforcement of 3mm diameter has the
highest tensile strength yet its performance can’t compete with the 10mm steel
reinforcing bar, thus, it can’t be used as replacement of steel bars reinforcing the
load bearing parts of the building like beams and columns. Therefore, it is safe to
say that the banana fiber rope can be used specifically on ground floor slab only.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

TITLE PAGE ……………………………………………………………….….........…. i

APPROVAL SHEET …………………………………………………….……………. ii

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT ……………………………………………………......…… iii

ABSTRACT ……………………………………………………………………………. v

TABLE OF CONTENTS ……………………………………………………….……. vi

LIST OF FIGURES AND TABLES ………………………………………........……. x

Chapter

1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study ………………………………………….1

1.2 Statement of the Problem …………………………………………2

1.3 Objectives of the Study …………………………………………....2

1.4 Significance of the Study ……………………………………….…3

1.5 Scope and Limitation …………………………………………..…..4

1.6 Theoretical Background …………………………………..............4

1.6.1 Tensile Strength ……………………………………………..4

1.6.2 National Building Code of the Philippines ………………...7

1.7 Operational Definition of Terms …………………………………..8

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2 REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

2. 1 Introduction………………………………………………….….…10

2.2 Natural Fibers …………………………………………………….11

2.3 Banana Fiber ……………………………………………………..14

2.4 Shelf Life of Banana Fiber……….………………………………16

2.5 Banana Fiber as Composite Material ……………………….....16

2.6 Alkaline Treatment of Banana Fiber ……………..…….………18

3 METHODOLOGY OF THE STUDY

3.1 Introduction ……………………………......................................20

3.2 Experimental Design ……………………………………............20

3.3 Environment and Participants …………………………………..20

3.4 Research Instrument …………………………………………….21

3.5 Experimental Procedure …………………………………………21

3.5.1 Gathering of Data and Materials Needed ……………….21

3.5.2 Processing of Raw Materials ……………………………..21

3.5.3 Manual Rope Making Process ……………………………22

3.5.4 Performing Slump Test ……………………………………23

3.5.5 Mixing and Creating of Concrete Samples ……………...24

3.5.6 Testing and Analysis of Data Gathered …………………25

3.5.7 Data Computation ………………………………………….26

3.5.8 Formulating the Summary, Conclusions and

Recommendations ………………………………………....27
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4 DATA PRESENTATION, RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

4.1 Introduction ………………………………………………………..28

4.2 Strength of Banana Fiber Ropes …………….…………………28

4.3 Flexural Strength of Concrete Samples ………………………..29

5 SUMMARY, FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS

5.1 Introduction ……………………………………………………......31

5.2 Summary……………………………………………………………31

5.3 Findings……………………………………………………...……..32

5.4 Conclusions………………………………………………………...32

5.5 Recommendations……………………………………………...…33

PROPOSED ACTION PLAN ………………………………………………...…….. 34

REFERENCE LIST …………………………………………………………….……..37

APPENDICES

A. Letter to the Campus Director ……………………………………….…..40

B. Letter to the Dean of the College of Engineering and Architecture ….41

C. Tabulated Data of Average Flexural Strength as Compared to

Standard ……………….…………………………………...……………...42

D. Mathematical Computations. ……………….……………………………43

E. Actual Photos ………………………………………………….…………..47

F. Costing ……………………………………………………………………..51
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G. Concrete Samples for Flexural Test …………………………………….53

RESEARCHERS’ BIODATA ………………………………………………………..54

RESEARCH AGREEMENT ………………………………………………………….58

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LIST OF FIGURES AND TABLES

Figure

1 Theoretical and Conceptual Framework ………….………….................6

2 Flexural Strength of Concrete Samples ………………………….……..30

Table

1 Tensile Strength of Banana Fiber Ropes …………….……...……...……28

2 Load Carried and Flexural Strength of Concrete Samples ……..………29

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No Page Number

Chapter 1
Double Space
INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Concrete, a composite material, is known to be the most commonly used

man - made material on earth. It is very essential in every infrastructure. It has

Double Space
high compressive strength but is very weak when it comes to tension. It is

exposed to severe deformation and changes in physical appearance like

cracking. One way to help concrete reduce its cracks is through the use of

reinforcements.

Reinforcement is widely used since 19th century. In most building

construction all over the world, steel bar is commonly used. In prehistoric times,

fibers have been used for concrete reinforcement.

Plant fibers like bamboo, abaca and banana are common as admixtures

that strengthen the concrete. In this study, the researchers will use the banana

fibers as reinforcement on concrete. These fibers will be formed into ropes as

reinforcements in varying diameters to be embedded in concrete that will reduce

its cracks.

Cracking is sometimes associated with public perception. Some people

often think that cracks are caused by inefficient and substandard materials, thus

making an infrastructure not presentable. Theoretically, cracks can reduce the

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strength of concrete. Though it is likely inevitable but it can be controlled or

minimized by devising presentable steps and taking the causes into account.

Since cracking is an indication that concrete has very low tensile strength,

the researchers will examine an economical way to minimize, if not prevent, the

cracking on concrete. It can be minimized if the material embedded within the

concrete has sufficient tensile strength. The researchers aim to apply additional
Double Space
binding strength to concrete by introducing banana fiber, a natural material

commonly used in vegetable farms as replacement of nylon. The researchers

believe that the fibers will have significant tensile strength when they are formed

into ropes to be embedded in concrete.

In doing so, an economically acceptable and available way in preventing

cracking on concrete can be formulated.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

The improvement of concrete in terms of flexural strength and the disposal

of banana pseudo stems as byproducts are the problems the researchers hope
Double Space
to address. To utilize these waste materials, the researchers will conduct an

experimental study using banana fiber as reinforcement to compensate for the

low tensile strength of concrete. By adding banana fiber, this will lead to an

increase of tensile strength of concrete.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The study aims to achieve the following objectives:

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1. to determine the flexural strength of the plain concrete, with Banana

Fiber reinforcement, and steel bar;

2. to determine the optimum strength of the banana fiber in terms of

flexural and tensile;

3. to recommend action plan based on the results of the study.

1.4 Significance of the Study

The result of the study would be beneficial to the modern homeowners,

banana farmers and suppliers, civil engineering students and future researchers.

For modern homeowners, the result of this study provides a solution to cracking

of ground floor concrete slab surfaces that creates a bad impression and is not

pleasing to the eyes. Banana farmers and suppliers can also benefit from this

study because it may result to an increase in demand for banana and can create

additional income for them since Philippines is known to be a huge supplier of

banana. The civil engineering students will gain knowledge and insights about

the problems in their field including the cracking on concrete surfaces, and find

some possible solutions and ways to approach these problems. Lastly, future

researchers will also gain knowledge and insights from the study, specifically the

cracking on concrete surfaces and the significant tensile strength of Banana

fiber, and use these for further research.

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1.5 Scope and Limitations

The study has a time frame of ten months. Its main goal was to determine

the degree of difference in terms of flexural strength among these three samples:

1. Plain Concrete;

2. Banana Fiber Reinforced Concrete; and

3. Steel Reinforced Concrete

The study was intended to determine the flexural strength of the concrete

sample using class AA mixture and with banana fiber reinforcement. However,

the diameters used were:

1. 3 mm

2. 7 mm

3. 10 mm

4. 12 mm

1.6 Theoretical Background

1.6.1 Tensile Strength

Concrete with fiber reinforcements can be designed to provide a wide

range of mechanical and durable properties to meet the design requirements of a

structure. The tensile strength of concrete is one of the most common

performance measure used by engineers in designing structures. It is calculated

from the failure load divided by the cross-sectional area resisting the load and
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reported in units in pound-force per square inch (psi) in US Customary Units or

megapascals in SI Units.

According to MacGregor and Wight - ( Reinforced Concrete Mechanics

and Design ), concrete is strong in compression, but weak in tension. In this

study, the researchers will add an additional binding strength in concrete by

using banana fiber as its reinforcements.

Tensile strength is measured by breaking cylindrical concrete specimen

with a force required to an extent that the specimen will elongate at its breaking

point. The testing is usually done using the Flexural Testing Machine. It is done

in accordance with the ASTM D638 procedure having a cross head of 5 mm/min.

As stated in the book of Simplified Design of Concrete Structures by Aziz et al.

(1981), "All natural fibers are able to reinforce concrete". Banana fiber will be

used in this study that will increase the tensile strength capacity of the concrete

sample and thus increase its flexural load capacity experimentally and through

numerical simulations.

Tensile strength requirement can vary from 3000 psi (20 MPa) for

residential concrete to 4000 psi and higher in commercial structures. Higher

strengths up to and exceeding 10,000 psi (70 MPa) are specified for certain

applications.
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Section 1.01.09
Any design, material,
method of construction, or
Reinforced Concrete
workmanship...
Mechanics and Design
National Building Code of
Concrete is strong in
the Philippines (1998)
compression, but weak in
tension. Section 707.2.3 Design
Assumptions
MacGregor and Wight
(2006) Masonry carries no tensile
stress
Simplified Design of Concrete
Structures National Structural Code of
the Philippines (2010)
Natural fibers are able to
reinforce concrete... Section 403.2.1
Aziz et al. (1981) The engineer may require
the testing of any...
National Structural Code of
the Philippines (2001)

Materials Needed:
 Banana Fiber
 Reinforcing Bar
 Sand, cement, gravel

Samples:
 Plain concrete
 Fiber – Reinforced Concrete
 Reinforced Concrete

Flexural Strength Tensile Strength

Action Plan

Figure 1. THEORETICAL AND CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

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1.6.2 National Building Code of the Philippines

As stated in NBCP Section 1.01.09 states that, “Any design, material or

method of construction, or workmanship not specifically included in this code

may be used provided that such alternate of new design material or method of

construction of workmanship is at best equivalent of those prescribed in this code

in effectiveness”.

As stated in NBCP Section 707.2.3, “Masonry carries no tensile stress.”

To improve the Tensile Strength properties of concrete, reinforcements is a

possible source of alternative that should be determined. In section 403.2.1 of

the NSCP, it is stated that the engineer may require the testing of material and

used this in concrete construction to determine if the materials are correctly

specified.

Tensile Strength test results are primarily used to determine that the

reinforcements in concrete meet the requirement of the Specified Strength in the

job specification. Strength test results from a sample of concrete with banana

fiber may be used for quality control, acceptance of concrete, or for estimating

the concrete tensile strength in a structure.

Concrete samples tested for acceptance and quality control are made and

cured in accordance with procedures described for Standard-Cured Specimens

in ASTM C31 (Standard Practice for Making and Curing Concrete Test

Specimens in the Field).

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The reinforced concrete is designed to produce an average strength

higher than the strength of plain concrete such that the risk of not complying with

the strength specification is minimized. To comply with the strength requirements

of a job specifications both the following acceptance criteria apply:

1. The average of 3 consecutive tests should exceed the flexural strength

of plain concrete.

2. The average flexural strength of 3 consecutive tests of banana fiber-

reinforced concrete should compete with the steel reinforced concrete.

A test result is the average of at least three standard – cured strength

specimens made from the same concrete samples and tested in the same age.

In most cases, strength requirements for concrete are within 14 to 28 days. The

allowable strength of concrete due to flexure must be 10% to 20% of the

standard compressive strength of residential concrete which is from 17 MPa to

28 MPa.

1.7 Operational Definition of Terms

The terms listed below are used in the study and are defined

operationally:

Curing. This is the process of keeping the plain concrete sample,

concrete with banana fiber-mat and steel reinforced concrete wet and moist for a

certain number of days after it has been poured.

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Fiber. It is a rope or string to be embedded in concrete to add more

tensile strength.

Flexural Strength. It is the measure of the capacity of concrete sample

material to withstand forces due to flexure or bending when tested by the

Flexural Testing Machine.

Slump Test. It measures the workability of the concrete mixture.

Tensile Strength. It is the largest unit of measured strength that the

sample material can achieve when tested in a tension test.

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Chapter 2

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

2.1 Introduction

Concrete is a strong substance that is used as construction material made

by mixing aggregate, cement, and water. It is a widely used man – made product

as composite material in erecting architectural structures, motorways/roads,

bridges/overpasses, runways, dams, parking structures, pipes, footings for gates,

pools/reservoirs, fences and poles and even boats. Engineers are usually who

will design a structure that is livable and safe to humans. Properties of concrete,

its reinforcements and environmental factors are their primary consideration in

constructing structures.

Concrete is often added by reinforcements. It can be fabricated with high

compressive strength, but constantly has lower tensile strength. Due to this

reason, it is usually reinforced with materials that are strong in tension,

commonly steel.

Freezing of trapped water and different loading conditions are some of the

factors that can damage concrete. It must withstand environmental effects thus

climatic changes cause temperature variations through the depth of the concrete,

including internal stresses which ultimately introduce the danger of cracking.

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According to Section 707.2.3, Design Assumptions of NSCP 2010,

masonry carries no tensile stress. The book Reinforced Concrete – Mechanics

and Design supports this statement which states that: Concrete is strong in

compression, but weak in tension. Restrained shrinkage or temperature changes

give rise to tensile stresses in excess of the tensile strength of the concrete

resulting for cracks to develop (MacGregor and Wight, 2006).

Most common concrete forms have structural failure since they have low

resistance to tension but have greater resistance to compression. To overcome

this limitation, one common method is by applying reinforcement through adding

fiber materials to the basic material to enhance its resistance to tension.

Reinforcing a concrete is an efficient way on stabilizing a structure that

can resist tensile stresses due to loading conditions that tends to elongate the

material and eventually can cause unacceptable cracking and/or structural

failure.

2.2 Natural Fibers

Natural fibers are fibers that are naturally produced by plants, animals,

and geological processes. They can be matted into sheets to make products

such as paper, felt or fabric. Natural fibers are determined by such properties like

length, pliability, strength, abrasion resistance, elasticity, absorbency, and

various surface properties that are useful in commercial purposes. Natural fibers

can be used as a component of composite material, where the orientation of

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fibers influences the properties. Considering its prime properties, natural fibers

can be used as reinforcement in concrete.

Concrete is strong in compression, as the aggregates efficiently carries

the compression load. However, it is weak in tension, as the cement holding the

aggregate in place can crack, allowing the structure to fail. Reinforced concrete

adds steel reinforcing bars, steel fibers, glass fiber, or plastic fiber to carry tensile

loads. According to Aziz et al., natural fibers are able to reinforce concrete and

achieve the same performance behavior as that of conventional fiber reinforced

concrete coming from steel and other inorganic/synthetic fibers.

The efficient way to increase concrete’s tensile strength, impact, and

fatigue is the addition of fibers in the blend. In that way, toughness and ductility

are also improved (Lee, 2017). According to the book, Construction and Building

Materials, fibers increase the tensile strength by controlling the propagation of

cracks but cannot prevent the formation of cracks in the composites (Lee et al.,

2017). The use of fibers as reinforcement in concrete reduces seepage water,

permeability, improves both compressive and tensile strength, increases

abrasion resistance by 40% thereby making for improved life of roads, walkways

and industrial flooring (Patel et al., 2010).

According to Rai et. al (2014), the use of natural fibers in concrete mixes

provides a ductile post – cracking behavior of the fiber and has beneficial effects

with respect in increasing flexural strength.

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One of the disadvantages of concrete is its inability to resist tensile

stresses that can result in the formation of cracks. By overcoming this limitation,

reinforcement should be done. Reinforcing a concrete is by adding fiber materials

on plain concrete where these fiber materials can be natural fibers that exhibit

the same performance behavior as that of conventional fiber reinforced concrete

coming from steel and other synthetic fibers. Natural fibers give additional

strength that increases the resistance of concrete on tensile stresses by

controlling the propagation of cracks but cannot prevent the formation of cracks

in the composite. Thus, using natural fibers as concrete reinforcement prevents

further cracking and increases concrete’s flexural strength.

The main aim of reinforcing a concrete is to increase its tensile strength,

making it strong and improve its structural life. Highly strong natural fiber can be

used in order to attain this aim where it can prolong concrete’s life amidst

different factors affecting its deterioration commonly, concrete cracking.

There is a raise of interest from engineers, researchers, professionals,

and scientist regarding the use of natural fibers as an alternative for

reinforcement, due to its superior properties such as high specific strength, low

cost, low weight, fairly good mechanical properties, eco – friendly, non –

abrasive, and bio – degradable characteristics.

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2.3 Banana Fiber

Banana plant (Musa acuminata) not only gives delectable fruits but also

provides textile fibers, the banana fiber. It grows easily as young shoots set out

and is commonly found in hot tropical countries. All banana varieties have

enriched with fibers.

Banana fiber (Musa Sepientum) is one of the world’s strongest natural

fibers. It is made from the stem of the banana plant and is incredibly durable

hence it is biodegradable. These fibers are obtained after the fruit is harvested

and fall in the group of bast fibers. Subsequently, the trunk of the banana plant

more like the pseudostem is thrown as agricultural waste to a great extent and

results a huge problem of disposal. So from this banana fibers are extracted

mechanically and used to make various products.

Banana fiber has its own physical and chemical characteristics and

properties that make it a fine quality fiber. It is highly a strong fiber thus it has

smaller elongation. Apart from having high tensile strength, it has strong moisture

absorption quality and as well as releases moisture very fast. The chemical

composition of banana fiber is cellulose, hemicelluloses, and lignin. Banana fiber

is relatively comparable to bamboo fiber but its spin ability, fineness, and tensile

strength are said to better (Saini, 2017).

Being excellent of its tensile strength, it was also used as primary source

in making items like ropes, mats, and some other composite materials in past
 26

recent years. Increasing environmental awareness has made banana fiber an

eco – friendly material with high quality fiber that has been recognized for all its

good qualities. This awareness brought the use of banana fibers in demand in

other fields such as apparel garments and home furnishings. Likewise, it is being

used in making kimono and kamishimo, the traditional dresses in Japan, since

the Edo period (1600-1868). Rugs made from banana silk yarn fibers are also

popular worldwide.

Considering its prime abilities, banana fiber has good resistance to sea

water and has natural buoyancy created a ready market for it in the manufacture

of shipping cables. It is also widely used as wall drilling cables, power

transmission ropes and cordage, fishing nets, and other types of cordage.

In Bohol, located in the tropical region, the abundance of banana plant is

high. The disposal of the trunk of the banana plant after the fruit is harvested is a

problem since it is already considered as an agricultural waste. Using eco –

friendly materials is a trend nowadays and banana fiber coming from the trunk of

the banana plant is a preferable choice. It has been used as primary source in

making ropes and cordages and has good physical and chemical properties as

stated above. Some farmers actually use dried banana trunk that was cut into

pieces as an alternative in tying agricultural crops.

Banana fiber is considered as a promising reinforcing material since it is

abundantly available, relatively inexpensive and the energy requirement in their

 27

extraction is minimal. It has a considerable engineering advantage thus making it

a suitable fiber with relatively good mechanical properties to reinforce concrete.

2.4 Shelf Life of Banana Fiber

In India, the Navsuri Agriculture University (NAU) claims that banana fiber

has the property of making currency notes that lasts for about a century. Dr. B.N.

Kolambe, a scientist at Navsuri Agriculture University (NAU), stated that they had

standardised the process of manufacturing high – value paper from the banana

fiber and the paper has been tested at the Central Institute for Research on

Cotton Technology. Researchers have founded that paper made out from

banana fiber has a shelf – life of over 100 years and can be folded for as many

as 3,000 times hence it is the strongest of the long fibers ever found amid natural

fibers.

Structural integrity of concrete depends on strength, durability, and life –

span of the reinforcement used. Considering banana fiber’s prime properties, it is

a suitable material where in it has a long shelf – life that can be used as

reinforcement which is essential in maintaining structural integrity thus improving

life – span of concrete structure.

2.5 Banana Fiber as Composite Material

N. Venkateshwaran et al. give a review on the Banana Fiber through a

summary of research work published which shows special references to the

structure, physical and mechanical properties of the composites. Composites

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based on these fibers have very good potential use in various sectors like

construction, automotive and machinery due to low density, high tensile strength,

high tensile modulus, and low elongation at break of banana fibers.

Growing interest in bio – based or “green composites” also referred to as

natural materials making banana fiber a suitable material in reinforcing composite

materials in automotive and transportation applications. It is being said because

of the increasing demand for environmentally friendly materials and to improve

profit margins and reduces production costs of some engineers and

manufacturing companies. Based on flexural test, banana fiber/eco – polyester

composites have a higher flexural strength and modulus, due to improved

fiber/matrix interaction. This banana fiber/eco – polyester composites yields a

flexural strength of 40.16 MPa and compressive strength of 123.28 MPa.

Recently, Polypropylene reinforced with banana fibers is used by

automobile companies for making under – floor protection panels in luxurious

cars like Mercedes. Banana fiber inherent high modulus and specific strength

thus makes it a good reinforcement. In addition, banana fiber has resistance to

rotting and its specific flexural strength is near that of glass fibers. From this,

Daimler – Chrysler’s researchers have patented the new combination of

Polypropylene (PP) thermoplastic with embedded banana fiber and the

compression moulding process has been initiated by Rieter Automotive. As one

of the pioneers in automotive development, Daimler – Chrysler Company

implemented more than 30 components in their vehicles using banana fiber.

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Apart from having high performance as reinforced composite material

aforementioned above, banana fibers are associated with some challenges

including low thermal stability, high moisture uptake, and low bonding with

polymers. Various studies have shown that with appropriate surface treatments

the mechanical properties such as tension, flexure, and impact can be improved.

Based on the studies stated above, composites based on banana fibers

have very good physical and chemical properties because of high tensile

strength and low elongation that the banana fibers exhibit. These fibers also have

high flexural strength and resistance to rotting where it is important for a concrete

reinforcement to withstand bending moments experienced on concrete and not to

deteriorate easily.

The application of banana fiber in automotive and transportation industry

in manufacturing composites is a firm reason that using banana fiber as concrete

reinforcement is a possibility.

2.6 Alkaline Treatment of Banana Fiber

Concrete deterioration increases when a highly alkaline material interacts

with acidic compounds that result to inability of the concrete to hold various

components. Since banana fiber is acidic fruit material where its pH value is less

than 7 and concrete is highly alkaline building material which has a pH value of

around 12.5 where it does not resist acidic compounds, chemical pre – treatment

has to take place in order to lower its acidity.

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Appropriate surface treatments enable mechanical bonding, and thereby

improve matrix – reinforcement interaction which previous studies have shown

and the effective way is treating banana fibers on alkaline solution. Alkaline

treatment of cellulosic fibers is the usual method in lowering the acidity of a

material thus producing high quality fibers. This improves the fiber – matrix

adhesion due to removal of natural and artificial impurities. To conclude, the

enhancement in aspect ratio and development of a rough surface topography

offer better fiber – matrix interface adhesion and an increase in mechanical

properties (A. Bessadok, et al., 2009).

Banana plant is acidic in nature hence using banana fiber as

reinforcement when mixed with concrete, which is an alkaline material, structural

strength of concrete may deplete. Alkaline treatment is the common method of

lowering the acidity of the material and because of that mechanical properties of

banana fiber would improve. Indeed, alkaline – treated banana fiber has

heightened its strength thus making it more suitable to reinforce concrete.

 31

Chapter 3

METHODOLOGY OF THE STUDY

3.1 Introduction

The objective of the experiment is to evaluate the tensile strength of the

banana fiber and the flexural strength of concrete with banana fiber as

reinforcement in a Class AA mixture.

3.2 Design

The researchers utilized the experimental methods in determining the

significance of banana fiber reinforcement in resisting external cracking on

concrete surface. The researchers gathered essential data and materials needed

for the study. Experimental research involves the testing and experimentation of

the proposed banana fiber reinforcement. The formulation of the findings and

conclusion about the study is the last step.

3.3 Environment and Participants

The banana fiber reinforcements were brought up to Cebu for tensile

testing. The laboratory was located at the ASTEC Materials Testing Corp. In

testing the concrete, the samples were brought to EB Testing Center. The

flexural testing machine was used to determine the flexural strength of concrete.
 32

3.4 Research Instruments

The researchers used the Slump Test Apparatus in checking the

consistency of the concrete mixture whether it pass for its specific application.

The needed data were obtained through experimentation with the use of

Observation Guides of load carried and flexural strength of concrete samples.

The experimentation will show the comparison among the plain concrete sample,

with banana fiber reinforcement, and steel reinforced concrete sample in terms of

resistance to external cracking to be obtained by using Flexural Testing Machine.

The tensile strength of the banana fiber reinforcements was obtained using a

Tensile Testing Machine from ASTEC Materials Testing Corp.

3.5 Procedure

3.5.1 Gathering of Data and Materials Needed.

Different kinds of sources were used to gather data about Banana Fiber,

such as books, web, local residents and experts. The causes of concrete

cracking can also be obtained from these sources.

3.5.2 Processing of Raw Materials

Banana fibers were processed into strings and some of the fibers were

formed into ropes. The fiber ropes were soaked into a pail of alkaline solution for

12 hours to perfectly prevent water from fresh concrete mixture from transferring

into the fiber thus, providing the desired amount of water for the hydration of the
 33

concrete. The researchers created molds similar in dimension to what is used for

Flexural Strength Test based on what is required by the American Society for

Testing and Materials (ASTM) which is 6 x 6 x 21 inches.

3.5.3 Manual Rope Making Process

These are the following procedures in making the banana fiber rope:

a. Prepare a rope making machine with three hooks and a swivel made

from a piece of board with one hook at the center.

b. For 3 mm banana fiber rope, tie two strands of fiber in each hook of the

rope making machine, and on its opposite side, tie all the strands tightly on the

hook of the swivel.

c. Use a piece of equilateral triangle, 10x10x10 cm with holes on its three

vertices, place it first at the center of the fiber’s length to keep the fibers in each

hook apart. Drag the triangle all the way to the swivel to start the process.

d. Start the rope making process by rotating the three hooks manually up

to 40 clockwise rotations.

e. The swivel will rotate three times counterclockwise for each clockwise

rotation of the machine on the opposite side.

f. The triangle will control the bread of the rope, moving towards the

machine on the other side.

 34

g. After the triangle touches the three hooks on the other side, turn the

swivel a few more times.

h. Before removing the rope from the hooks, wrap its opposite ends using

an electrical or masking tape to counter the force and keep the rope fibers intact.

i. Repeat the process using 5,8 and 10 strands for each hook to make the

banana fiber rope of 7 mm, 10 mm and 12 mm, respectively.

j. Three specimens for each test should be prepared according to ASTM

D4268.

3.5.4 Performing Slump Test

Following the ASTM C143 specification, a slump test was performed to

determine the consistency of the newly mixed concrete.

a. Prepare a standard slump cone with a diameter of 8 in (200 mm) at the

bottom height of 12 in (305 mm).

b. Place the cone on a flat surface.

c. Pour the freshly mixed concrete inside the cone in 3 layers each being

rod separately by 16 mm rod 25 times.

d. Level the slump cone and lift up once by standing on the foot pieces.
 35

e. Measure the slump immediately by getting the difference in height

between the cone and the top of the slumped height.

f. Record the obtained data.

A high slump of more than 3 inches may too wet while a low slump of less

than 1 inch may be too stiff.

3.5.5 Mixing and Creating Concrete Samples

After preparing all the materials needed, the researchers started making

the samples. The fiber ropes were placed into the bottom of the sample, where

tensile force usually occurs. It was stressed into a point where it no longer

deflects downward so that it can resist effectively the resulting strain (tensile) that

will be experienced by the concrete. It has a concrete covering of 40 mm.

Following the ASTM C31, the following procedures were performed in

preparing of the concrete beam samples.

a. Use Class AA (1:1.5:3) in preparing the concrete mixture.

b. Measure the slump for each concrete batch.

c. Lubricate first the inside surface of the molds using grease.

d. Place the molds on a smooth horizontal surface.

e. Pour the fresh concrete mixture into the molds in three layers.
 36

f. For each layer, compact it by applying equally distributed 25 strokes

using a 16 mm rod.

g. After having all the layers, remove excess concrete from the top of the

mold and smoothen it with no pressure imposed on it.

h. Store the specimens in the molds in a temperature room for 24 hours.

i. Remove the specimens from the molds and moist cure them for 28 days

till the time of testing.

j. Three specimens for each test should be prepared according to ASTM

C293.

There are eighteen samples created that are classified as plain (no fiber

reinforcement), slightly-reinforced (fiber reinforcements with 3 mm and 7 mm

diameter), medium-reinforced (fiber reinforcements with 10 mm and 12 mm

diameter) and steel reinforced concrete with 10 mm diameter steel bar were

present on each sample. Three samples were made from each class to obtain

more credible results. In this way, the researchers compared the load capacity of

the different samples before the first sign of cracking occur.

3.5.6 Testing and Analysis of the Data Gathered

The concrete samples with banana fiber reinforcements, without banana

fiber reinforcements, and with steel bars are subjected to flexural strength test

after the curing stage. Each sample was placed in a testing machine and then
 37

ASTM C293 (Center Point Loading) was being applied until it reached its failure

point. The load that caused the failure in bending of the beam was recorded.

The banana fiber ropes are subjected to tensile strength test. Each

sample was placed in a tensile testing machine and then ASTM D4268 (Fiber

Rope Tensile Strength) was being applied until it its failure point. The load that

caused the failure in tension of the rope was recorded.

3.5.7 Data Computation

To compute for the flexural strength or modulus of rupture of the concrete

sample, the obtained load value was substituted to the formula;

3 PL
MR= 2
2b d

Where;

MR = modulus of rupture, MPa

P = applied load that cause the failure on concrete, N

L = span of the beam, mm

b = width of the beam, mm

d = depth of the beam, mm

To compute for the tensile strength of the banana fiber rope, the obtained

load value was substituted to the fomula;

 38

P
f t=
A

Where;

f t = calculated tensile stress, MPa

P = applied load that cause the failure, N

A = cross-sectional area of the rope, mm2

3.5.8 Formulating the Summary, Conclusions and Recommendations

After analyzing the data gathered, findings were summarized and

conclusions were drawn from them. Several recommendations were made to

improve the study.

 39

Chapter 4

DATA PRESENTATIONS, RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

4.1 Introduction

This chapter includes the presentation, analysis, and interpretation of

data. The researchers studied the flexural strength of concrete with banana fiber

reinforcements and the tensile strength of banana fiber ropes.

4.2 Strength of Banana Fiber Ropes

Table 1. Tensile Strength of Banana Fiber Ropes

Samples Trials Tensile Strength (MPa) Average Tensile

Strength (MPa)

1 19.80
3 mm Banana 2 22.63 21.22
Fiber
3 21.22
1 4.94
7 mm Banana 2 4.94 5.29
Fiber
3 5.98
1 10.44
10 mm Banana 2 11.59 11.21
Fiber
3 11.59
1 12.11
12 mm Banana 2 12.20 11.93
Fiber
3 11.49

The table shows data of Tensile Strength of Banana Fiber Ropes taken

from the result of the Tensile Strength Test using the Tensile Testing Machine.
 40

The 3 mm diameter banana fiber rope has the highest tensile strength among the

four diameters with an average of 21.22 MPa. This implies that 3 mm diameter

banana fiber rope is most suitable to be used as reinforcing material.

4.3 Flexural Strength of Concrete Samples

Table 2. Load Carried and Flexural Strength of Concrete Samples

Maximum Average Flexural Average

Samples Trials Load Carried Strength, Fb Flexural
Load (kN)
(kN) (MPa) Strength, Fb
(MPa)

1 30 6.78
Plain Concrete 2 23 27.67 5.20 6.25
3 30 6.78
4 36 8.14
With 3 mm 5 24 29 5.43 6.56
Banana Fiber
6 27 6.10
7 27 6.10
With 7 mm 8 27 26 6.10 5.88
Banana Fiber
9 24 5.43
10 27 6.10
With 10 mm 11 21 26 4.75 5.88
Banana Fiber
12 30 6.78
13 27 6.10
With 12 mm 14 27 26 6.10 5.88
Banana Fiber
15 24 5.43
16 54 12.21
With 10 mm 17 54 60 12.21 13.56
Steel Bar
18 72 16.26
 41

Figure 2. Flexural Strength of Concrete Samples

Table 2 with its graph representation shows the data of the maximum applied

force on the concrete taken from the result of the Flexural Strength Test using the

flexural testing machine. The load applied were used in computing flexural strength

of the concrete samples. The concrete samples with 3 mm banana fiber

reinforcements having an average flexural strength of 6.56 MPa exceeded the

average flexural strength of plain concrete samples which is 6.25 MPa. On the

contrary, samples with 7 mm, 10 mm, and 12 mm fiber reinforcements have lesser

average flexural strength of 5.88 MPa compared with samples with 3 mm diameter

fiber reinforcements and did not exceed the average flexural strength of the plain

concrete samples.

The possible reason for the results on flexural strength of concrete with

banana fiber reinforcement was the performance of fiber reinforcements in terms of

tensile strength. Since the 3 mm has the highest tensile strength among the four

diameters, the concrete sample with 3 mm fiber reinforcement will tend to have the

highest flexural strength.

 42

Chapter 5

SUMMARY, FINDINGS, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

5.1 Introduction

This chapter contains the summary, findings, conclusions and

recommendations formulated by the researchers based on the gathered data and

test results.

5.2 Summary

The main purpose of this study was to find out what diameter of banana

fiber reinforcement gives the optimum flexural strength of the concrete samples.

The concrete samples with banana fiber reinforcements were tested based on

flexural strength and the average strength was then compared to the

performance of the plain concrete and also with steel reinforcing bar. Tensile

testing of the banana fiber ropes was also conducted at ASTEC Materials

Testing Corp. to find out what diameter of rope has the highest value of tensile

strength.

The researchers used experimental type of research. The data of flexural

strength were gathered from testing the concrete beam samples by the use of

Flexural Testing Machine. The data for tensile strength were gathered from

testing the banana fiber ropes using a Tensile Testing Machine.

 43

5.3 Findings

After all the experiments and having gathered, analyzed and interpreted

the data, the researchers found out that:

1. the average flexural strength of concrete samples with 7 mm, 10 mm,

and 12 mm banana fiber reinforcement did not exceed the strength of the plain

concrete.

2. the flexural strength of concrete with 3 mm, 7 mm, 10 mm, and 12 mm

banana fiber reinforcement passed the 20% compressive strength of

conventional mixture.

3. the concrete sample with 3 mm diameter reinforcement gives the

optimum flexural strength of 6.56 MPa and it exceeded the performance of the

plain concrete sample having an average flexural strength of 6.25 MPa.

4. the 3 mm banana fiber reinforcement has the highest value of tensile

strength among the four diameters with an average tensile strength of 32.53

MPa.

5.4 Conclusions

The following are the conclusions based on the findings:

1. There is no significant difference in terms of flexural strength of concrete

samples with and without banana fiber reinforcements.

 44

2. The smallest diameter of banana fiber reinforcement gives the optimum

flexural strength of the concrete samples.

3. The plain concrete shows no warning signs before it actually breaks unlike

with the concrete samples with banana fiber reinforcements.

4. The larger the diameter of banana fiber reinforcements, the lesser the

appearance of cracks before the concrete breaks or fails.

5. The tensile strength of the banana fiber ropes and the flexural strength of

the concrete samples with banana fiber reinforcements are lesser than half the

performance of steel reinforcing bars which means that banana fiber

reinforcements can’t be used in load bearing structural parts of the building like

beams and columns.

5.5 Recommendations

Future researchers may undergo the following recommendations for the

improvement of the study:

1. Use advance mechanism in extracting the fibers and use a more

accurate rope making machine. Do also further procedure in treating banana

fibers to be used as reinforcements.

2. A more accurate test for cracking must be conducted to fully validate

the idea that banana fiber reinforcement can significantly reduce external

cracking on concrete surface.

 45

Proposed Action Plan of Banana Fiber as Reinforcement on Concrete

Rationale

Concrete is one of the significant materials in the construction industry. It

is known to be the most widely used man – made product in the world for making

architectural structures, foundations, brick/block walls, pavements, bridges,

runways, dams, fences and poles; and even boats.

Cracking is very common to concrete due to low resistance to tensile

stress. It is the state where portions of the concrete lose the bond between

compositions. In reality, cracking is inevitable but it can be controlled or

minimized by devising presentable steps and taking the causes into account.

Banana fiber is a natural fiber that is also known for its high tensile

strength. As a composite material, its significance in resisting cracking in

concrete surface is a possibility.

Thus, the researchers believed that this study will be of great help to the

innovation of the construction industry. The result of this study will be a basis in

obtaining a possible material that can significantly reduce cracking in concrete

surface.
 46

Objectives

The plan of action is necessary to achieve the following objectives:

1. to promote the possibility of banana as an essential material for

construction; and

2. to provide the public a reliable information about the result of the study.

Methods of Implementation

The researchers will present the results of the study to knowledgeable

persons for more clarifications, validation and recommendations. After presenting

the study to the experts, the researchers will coordinate with the School

Research Faculty to inform the public about the findings of the study.
 47

Area Person
Concern Objective Strategy Involved T
1.Awareness To inform all Introduce the result of Researchers, Civil Ja
about the result concerned the study to Engineers and
of the study persons about the knowledgeable Engineering
development of persons for more Instructors
the study. clarifications and
validation.
2. Promote the To introduce a Inform the public about Public, Civil Fe
possibility of new material for the preliminary result Engineers 20
banana as an the innovation of of the study.
essential construction
material for industry.
construction.
3. Further To have a more Encourage future Students, Future M
development of accurate testing researchers to researchers,
the study.
PROPOSED and validation of
ACTION PLAN continue beyond the Research
the results of the scope of the study. Instructors
study.
 48

REFERENCE LIST

Ahmedabad (2011). Banana fibre paper has long shelf-life: Research. Retrieved

February 9, 2019, from https://www.thehindubusinessline.com

Aziz, M.A., Paramasivam, P., Lee, S.L., (1981). Prospects for natural fibre

reinforced concretes in construction. International Journal of Cement

Composites and Lightweight Concrete, 3 (2). Retrieved January 4, 2019,

from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/0262507581900063

Bessadok, A., Roudesli, S., Marais, S., Follain, N., & Lebrun, L. (2009). Alfa

fibers for unsaturated polyester composites reinforcement: Effects of

chemical treatments on mechanical and permeation properties. Vol.40

(Issue 2). Retrieved February 12, 2019, from

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1359835X08002789

Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica (2019). Natural fibers: Raw Material.

Retrieved February 13, 2019, from

https://www.britannica.com/topic/natural-fiber

Kumar, O.S., “Engineering Mechanics: Statics and Dynamics”. Tension and

Compression.pg.5, Equilibrium, Resultant and Equilibrant.pg.8

Lee, J.H., (2017). Influence of concrete strength combined with fiber content in

the residual flexural strengths of fiber reinforced concrete. Composite

Structures, 168. Retrieved February 9, 2019, from http://twin.sci-hub.tw

 49

Lee, J.H., Cho, B., & Choi, E. (2017). Flexural capacity of fiber reinforced

concrete with a consideration of concrete strength and fiber content.

Construction and Building Materials, 138. Retrieved February 9, 2019,

from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S09500618173

MacGregor, J.G., Wight, J.K. (2006). Reinforced Concrete – Mechanics and

Design Fourth Edition. Prentice Hall, Pearson Education South Asia Pte

Ltd.

Patel, I., & Modhera, C.D. (2010). Study Basic Properties of Fiber Reinforced

High Volume Fly Ash Concrete, Vol. I (Issue I). Retrieved January 10,

2019, from http://www.technicaljournalsonline.com/jers

Rai, A., & Joshi, Y.P. (2014). Applications and Properties of Fibre Reinforced

Concrete, Vol. 4 (Issue 5). Retrieved February 10, 2019, from

www.ijera.com

Robles, C. (1998). National Building Code of the Philippines. Retrieved January

4, 2019, from http://laws.chanrobles.com/ph/ra/republicactno6541.htm

Saini, N., & Sharma, B. (2017). Banana: Eco friendly fibre used for household

articles, Vol. 12 (Issue 2). Retrieved February 9, 2019, from

www.researchjournal.co.in

Venkateshwaran, N., & Elayaperumal, A. (2010). Banana Fiber Reinforced

Polymer Composites – A Review. Journal of Reinforced Plastics and

 50

Composites, Volume 29. Retrieved January 3, 2019, from

http://jrp.sagepub.com/

Vigneswaran, C., Pavithra, V., Gayathri, V., & Mythili, K., (2015). Banana Fiber:

Scope and Value Added Product Development, Volume 9 (Issue 2).

Retrieved January 5, 2019, from http://ojs.cnr.ncsu.edu

 51

APPENDICES

Appendix A

Letter to the Campus Director

September 17, 2019

ERNESTO C. RULIDA, PhD

Campus Director
Bohol Island State University
Main Campus
Tagbilaran City

Sir:

We, the fifth year students taking up Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering of
Bohol Island State University Main Campus, will conduct a study titled Banana
Fiber (Musa Sepientum) as Reinforcement for Concrete Crack Minimizer.

In connection with this, the researchers would like to request for your permission
from your office to allow us to conduct the study outside the school campus.

Your approval will set the course of this study. The researchers do hope that this
request will merit your favorable response.

Thank you very much and more power.

Respectfully yours,

KLEINT T. OCIAL
Group Leader

Noted by:

JOHN POL T. IGAGAMAO, CE

Research Instructor

Recommending Approval:

JULIUS C. CASTRO, MEng, CpE

Dean, College of Engineering and Architecture

Approved:

ERNESTO C. RULIDA, PhD

Campus Director
 52

Appendix B

Letter to the Dean of the College of Engineering and Architecture

September 17, 2019

JULIUS C. CASTRO, MEng, CpE

Dean
College of Engineering and Architecture
Bohol Island State University
Main Campus
Tagbilaran City

Sir:

Greetings!

The fifth year students of Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering are conducting
a research study titled: Banana Fiber (Musa Sepientum) as Reinforcement for
Concrete Crack Minimizer.

In relation to this, the researchers humbly ask your permission to do this study
outside the school campus.

Your approval will contribute a lot for the realization of this endeavor.

Thank you very much and more power!

Very truly yours,

KLEINT T. OCIAL
Group Leader

Noted by:

JOHN POL T. IGAGAMAO, CE

Research Instructor

Recommending Approval:

MILDRED P. CABAGNOT, CE, MSMATH

Research Adviser

Approved:

JULIUS C. CASTRO, MEng, CpE

 53

Dean, College of Engineering and Architecture

Appendix C

Tabulated Data of Average Flexural Strength as Compared to Standard

Average Flexural Standard Flexural

Samples
Strength (MPa) Strength (20%f’c)

Plain Concrete 6.25 5.6

With 3 mm dia. banana 6.56 5.6

fiber reinforcement

With 7 mm dia. banana 5.88 5.6

fiber reinforcement

With 10 mm dia. banana 5.88 5.6

fiber reinforcement

With 12 mm dia. banana 5.88 5.6

fiber reinforcement

With 10 mm dia. steel bar 13.56 5.6

 54

Appendix D

Mathematical Computations

Plain Concrete Samples

Trial 1:
3(30000)(533.4 )
MR= MR=6.78 MPa
2(152.4)(152.4)2

Trial 2:
3( 23000)(533.4 )
MR= MR=5.20 MPa
2(152.4)(152.4)2

Trial 3:
3(30000)(533.4 )
MR= MR=6.78 MPa
2(152.4)(152.4)2

Concrete Samples with 3mm Banana Fiber Reinforcement

Trial 1:
3(36000)(533.4 )
MR= MR=8.14 MPa
2(152.4)(152.4)2

Trial 2:
3( 24000)(533.4 )
MR= MR=5.43 MPa
2(152.4)(152.4)2

Trial 3:
3( 27000)(533.4 )
MR= MR=6.10 MPa
2(152.4)(152.4)2
 55

Concrete Samples with 7mm Banana Fiber Reinforcement

Trial 1:
3( 27000)(533.4 )
MR= MR=6.10 MPa
2(152.4)(152.4)2

Trial 2:
3( 27000)(533.4 )
MR= MR=6.10 MPa
2(152.4)(152.4)2

Trial 3:
3( 24000)(533.4 )
MR= MR=5.43 MPa
2(152.4)(152.4)2

Concrete Samples with 10mm Banana Fiber Reinforcement

Trial 1:
3( 27000)(533.4 )
MR= MR=6.10 MPa
2(152.4)(152.4)2

Trial 2:
3( 21000)(533.4 )
MR= MR=4.75 MPa
2(152.4)(152.4)2

Trial 3:
3(30000)(533.4 )
MR= MR=6.78 MPa
2(152.4)(152.4)2
 56

Concrete Samples with 12mm Banana Fiber Reinforcement

Trial 1:
3( 27000)(533.4 )
MR= MR=6.10 MPa
2(152.4)(152.4)2

Trial 2:
3( 27000)(533.4 )
MR= MR=6.10 MPa
2(152.4)(152.4)2

Trial 3:
3( 24000)(533.4 )
MR= MR=5.43 MPa
2(152.4)(152.4)2

Concrete Samples with 10mm Steel Reinforcing Bar

Trial 1:
3(54000)(533.4 )
MR= MR=12.21 MPa
2(152.4)(152.4)2

Trial 2:
3(54000)(533.4 )
MR= MR=12.21 MPa
2(152.4)(152.4)2

Trial 3:
3(72000)(533.4 )
MR= MR=16.26 MPa
2(152.4)(152.4)2
 57

Appendix E
Actual Photos
 58

Preparing the Banana Fibers

Making the Banana Fiber Rope

Making of Molds
 59

Banana Fi
Making of Concrete Samples
Alkalin

Curing of Concrete Samples

 60

Testing the Flexural Strength of Concrete Samples

Testing the Tensile Strength of Banana Fiber Rope

 61

Appendix F
Costing

These are the overall expenses estimated by the researchers for the

accomplishment of the study.

Estimated Expenses

Quantity Item Description Unit Cost Total Cost

1 set 3 pcs. Hooks P 35.00 P 35.00
1 set 6 pcs. ¼ in. Nut P 4.00 P 4.00
1 set 6 pcs. 3/16 in. Nut P 3.50 P 3.50
1 set 5/8 in. Flat washers P 12.00 P 12.00
1 set 3/8 in. Flat washers P 6.00 P 6.00
2 sets 3/16 in. Flat washers P 3.00 P 6.00
3 pcs. Ball caster P 19.00 P 57.00
2 pcs. 9 mm x 4’ x 8’ Plywood P 620.00 P 1240.00
1 pc. 500 grams Grease P 126.00 P 126.00
3 pcs. Lye solution P 21.25 P 63.75
2 pcs. Paint brush P 15.00 P 30.00
2 Hacksaw sharpening P 40.00 P 80.00
4 mts. Trapal P 60.00 P 240.00
 62

½ kls. # 1 Nails P 28.00 P 28.00

1 pc. 10 mm Steel bar @ 6 mts. P 138.00 P 138.00
3 bags Cement @ 40 kgs. P 212.75 P 638.25
6 sacks Sand P 35.00 P 210.00
12 sacks Gravel P 35.00 P 420.00
18 samples Flexural Strength Test P 108.00 P 1944.00
3 bars Tensile Strength Test of 10 P 261.00 P 783.00
mm Steel Bars
15 samples Tensile Strength Test of P 282.00 P 4230.00
Banana Fiber Ropes
---- Transportation ---- P 3338.00
Overall Cost P 13,632.50
 63

Appendix G

CONCRETE SAMPLES FOR FLEXURAL TEST

 64

RESEARCHERS` BIODATA

Personal Information

Name : Ray PG F. Alcala

Nick Name : Pg

Date of Birth : April 16, 1997

Age : 21

Place of Birth : Tagbilaran City, Bohol

Home Address : Candasag, Loboc, Bohol

Civil Status : Single

Religion : Roman Catholic

Father`s Name : Glecirio S. Alcala

Mother`s Name : Presciana F. Alcala

Educational Attainment

Elementary : Loboc Central Elementary School

Pob. Sawang Loboc, Bohol

Secondary : PMI Loboc Academy

 65

Pob. Sawang Loboc,

Bohol

College : Bohol Island State

University – Main Campus

C.P.G North Avenue,

Tagbilaran City

Course : Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

Personal Information

Name : Joseph Karl B. Dungog

Nick Name : Jk

Date of Birth : May 31, 1999

Age : 20

Place of Birth : Tagbilaran City, Bohol

Home Address : Tagbilaran City, Bohol

Civil Status : Single

Religion : Roman Catholic

Father`s Name : Edwel R. Dungog

Mother`s Name : Marciala B. Dungog

Educational Attainment

Elementary : Tagbilaran City Central Elementary School

J.S. Torralba St., Tagbilaran City

 66

Secondary : Dr. Cecilio Putong

National High School

C.P.G. North Avenue,

Tagbilaran City

College : Bohol Island State

University – Main Campus

C.P.G North Avenue, Tagbilaran City

Course : Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

Personal Information

Name : Kleint T. Ocial

Nick Name : Busdik

Date of Birth : April 29, 1998

Age : 21

Place of Birth : Naatang, Jagna, Bohol

Home Address : Naatang, Jagna, Bohol

Civil Status : Single

Religion : Roman Catholic

Father`s Name : Castro C. Ocial

Mother`s Name : Victoria T. Ocial

 67

Educational Attainment

Elementary : Naatang Elementary

School

Naatang, Jagna, Bohol

Secondary : Colegio de la Medalla

Milagrosa

Poblacion, Jagna, Bohol

College : Bohol Island State University – Main Campus

C.P.G North Avenue, Tagbilaran City

Course : Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

Personal Information

Name : Patrick B. Unajan

Nick Name : Pat / Trick

Date of Birth : November 21, 1997

Age : 21

Place of Birth : Carmen, Bohol

Home Address : Salvador, Sierra Bullones, Bohol

Civil Status : Single

Religion : Christianity – United Church of Christ in the

Philippines
 68

Father`s Name : Paterno A. Unajan

Mother`s Name : Ruby B. Unajan

Educational Attainment

Elementary : Sierra Bullones Central Elementary School

Poblacion, Sierra Bullones, Bohol

Secondary : Sierra Bullones Technical Vocational High School

Salvador, Sierra Bullones, Bohol

College : Bohol Island State University – Main Campus

C.P.G North Avenue, Tagbilaran City

Course : Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

Republic of the Philippines

BOHOL ISLAND STATE UNIVERSITY
MAIN CAMPUS

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE

6300 Tagbilaran City
Vision: A premiere S&T university for the formation of world class and virtuous human resource for sustainable development in Bohol and the Country.
Mission: BISU is committed to provide quality higher education in the arts and sciences, as well as in the professional and technological fields;
undertake research and development, and extension services for the sustainable development of Bohol and the country.

STUDENT-ADVISER/RESEARCH INSTUCTOR RESEARCH AGREEMENT

The purpose of this document is to formalize the terms of research

collaborations between student and their adviser/mentor for the project described
below. The Student-Adviser/Instructor Research Agreement addresses some
of the specific task, responsibilities, and other relevant issues associated with the
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conduct of scientific, research (e.g., research ethics, data ownership, authorship,

etc.). Please read and complete this form.

Title of Proposed Study:

BANANA FIBER (MUSA SEPIENTUM) AS REINFORCEMENT ON CONCRETE

Thesis Adviser / Research Instructor:

ENGR. MILDRED P. CABAGNOT / ENGR. JOHN POL T. IGAGAMAO

Name of Research Group Leader: KLEINT T. OCIAL

Names of group members / other students involved in project:

RAY PG F. ALCALA
JOSEPH KARL B. DUNGOG
PATRICK B. UNAJAN

Agreement Statement
The researchers recognize that scientific research is a labor – intensive
enterprise that demands a high-level personal commitment, time and effort. By
signing this document, we promise to dedicate the necessary time and effort to
complete this project accordance to the schedule. We will uphold the principles of
scientific integrity as exemplified by the BISU Intellectual Property Rights Policy,
which we have read and understood.
We further recognize that any form of data falsification, data fabrication, or
plagiarism represents an extremely serious violation that will result in the most
severe negative consequences.
We shall also abide by the stipulation that all research data (e.g. data files,
records, observations) from this project become the shared property between the
researchers and the College of Engineering and Architecture of Bohol Island
State University and will be retained by the thesis adviser/instructor who will
determine who and under what circumstances other ma have access to such
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data. We also understand that authorship of any resulting conference

presentation of journal article is shared with the thesis adviser/instructor will
retain the original copy of this agreement. The researchers and the department
chairperson will receive signed copies.

Research Group Leader`s Signature _______________date________________

Research Group Member`s Signature ______________date________________
Research Group Member`s Signature ______________date________________
Research Group Member`s Signature ______________date________________
Research Adviser`s/Instructor`s Signature ___________date________________

Noted:

JULIUS C. CASTRO, MEng, CpE JOSEPHINE B. NALZARO, PhD

Dean, CEA Director, Research and
Development