Strength Potentials of Rattan Reinforced Concrete Using Concrete Grade C30/35

Abstract

Steel reinforcements have been widely used in concrete work in order to help improve its tensile resistance against applied loads. But steel is susceptible to corrosion due to water ingress through cracks, increased in cost of purchase and dangers associated with maximizing profit due to greed. Rattan fiber is also known to be a suitable structural material both in compression and tension. Hence, this study examines the extent of application of rattan in concrete. Experimental investigation was carried out on conventional concrete (CC), rattan reinforced concrete cubes (RR, RS and SR), control beams (CTBM) and rattan reinforced concrete beams (RRBM, RSBM and SRBM). Compressive and Flexural strength tests were conducted on the samples at 7,14,21 and 28 days. The results revealed great potential of rattan when included in concrete work. The strength obtained is approximately twice that of conventional concrete. The modulus of Rupture (MoR) for all beam samples also revealed similar trend. The study concludes that rattan can partially replace main steel bars by approximately 50% in beams with suitable applications in light load bearing elements like lintel beams, roof beams, and spandrel.