Effect of Fiber Type and Content on the Compressive Strength and Flexural Performance of Cement Mortar

This study, as an experimental work, aims to investigate the effect of Fiber type and content on the properties of cement mortars. Three Fiber types are used in this study, namely, steel Fiber, basalt Fiber, and Polypropylene fiber. These fibers are used in different volume fractions to enhance the performance of cement mortars, and the results obtained as shown in the following conclusions: 1.                The addition of 0.5% SF into cement mortar has recorded the best compressive strength of 24.6 MPa, followed by 1.0% BF, which recorded 24.9 MPa, and then PPF, which performed 23.9 MPa with the addition of 0.5% PPF. 2.                Toughness of cement mortar with 1.0% SF recorded the highest value of 1520 N.mm, while 1.5% BF recorded the maximum toughness of 800 N.mm, and the toughness of 1650 N.mm for cement mortar with 1.0% PPF. 3.                Flexural test results showed that reinforcing cement mortar with PPF, especially at a volume fraction of 1.0%, significantly improved flexural strength and increased the energy absorbed after fracture (toughness). From these conclusions, some suggestions can be recommended to future studies. 1.                Future studies should explore the combined use of different Fiber types (such as steel-basalt or basalt-polypropylene) to determine possible synergistic effects on the strength, toughness, and durability of cement mortars. 2.                It is recommended to perform microstructural and interfacial analyses, using techniques such as SEM or XRD, to better understand the bonding mechanisms between Fibers and the cement matrix and how these influence mechanical performance.

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