Experimental Investigation on Strength of Concrete Using Basalt Fiber with Silica Fume

Concrete is a brittle material with low tensile strength and limited ductility. This study explores the enhancement of concrete strength through the addition of basalt fiber and silica fume. Basalt fibers improve tensile strength, crack resistance, and durability, while silica fume enhances compressive strength and reduces permeability. M40 grade concrete was tested by incorporating basalt fibers at 0.1%, 0.5%, and 1% volume fractions, along with a 10% replacement of cement by silica fume. Compressive and splitting tensile strengths were evaluated at 7, 14, and 28 days. Results indicate up to 30% improvement in 7-day compressive strength and 20% improvement at 28 days with a 1% fiber addition, demonstrating the synergy between basalt fibers and silica fume.