Effect of date palm fibers on the mechanical properties of concrete

Over the recent decades, scientists have begun to search for more sustainable and environmentally friendly materials. It is well known that construction materials are among the most commonly used materials, and have a clear negative impact on the environment. Therefore, this paper aims to discuss the possibility of using waste from date palm trees in concrete as a natural alternative to the conventional fibers. Previous studies concentrated on examining the behavior of lower dosages or short length of male date palm surfaces fibers (MDPSF) in concrete. In this study, MDPSF concrete specimens made by using higher dosages and longer length of fiber were tested. The mechanical properties of the date palm tree fiber have been investigated. In addition, flexural and compressive behavior of concrete specimens reinforced with different ratios and length of palm tree fiber, were studied. The results show clear improvement in flexural strength when MDPSF was added. Furthermore, by adding MDPSF the ductility of beam specimens was increased. An increase in compressive strength was achieved by adding MDPSF.