WORKABILITY AND MECHANICAL PERFORMANCE ASSESSMENT OF TIGERNUT FIBRE CONCRETE FOR SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION

• Bayode O

  Bells University of Technology Ota, Ogun State, Niger

• Folowosele, T

  University of Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria.

• Akinpelu, O. M

  Bells University of technology Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria.

• Braimah, J. I

  Bells University of technology Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria.

• Morakinyo T

  Bells University of Technology Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria.

 In the pursuit of an eco-friendly and sustainable environment, innovative research into the incorporation of natural fibers into construction materials particularly concrete has gained increasing attention. This study investigates the effect of tigernut fiber integration on the mechanical properties of concrete. Concrete mixes were prepared with tigernut fiber added at 0% (control), 1%, 2%, and 3% by weight of cement. A mix ratio of 1:1.5:3 and a water–cement ratio of 0.6 were adopted. Workability and mechanical properties were assessed using the slump test, compressive strength test, flexural strength test, and split tensile strength test. The slump test results indicated true slump values across all fiber additions, demonstrating good workability. The average compressive strengths at 28 days were 24.8 N/mm² (0%), 24.2 N/mm² (1%), 22.66 N/mm² (2%), and 20.1 N/mm² (3%). Corresponding split tensile strengths were 2.5 N/mm², 1.97 N/mm², 2.25 N/mm², and 2.48 N/mm², respectively. These findings suggest that while the compressive strength decreases slightly with increased fiber content, the split tensile strength remains relatively stable, indicating improved crack resistance and ductility. The study concludes that tigernut fiber can enhance the crack resistance and workability of concrete, making it a viable eco-friendly alternative for applications in construction of low-load-bearing structural elements, roadside infrastructure, and pavement systems.

1. Bayode O, Bells University of Technology Ota, Ogun State, Niger

   Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering

2. Folowosele, T, University of Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria.

   University of Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria.

3. Akinpelu, O. M, Bells University of technology Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria.

   Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering

4. Braimah, J. I , Bells University of technology Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria.

   Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering

5. Morakinyo T, Bells University of Technology Ota, Ogun State, Nigeria.

   Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering

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