Mechanical Performance of Cementitious Composites Reinforced with Low Coconut Fiber Content

Abstract:

The environmental impact associated with cement production has intensified the search for sustainable alternatives for cementitious composites. Coconut fiber, a renewable and low-cost material widely available in tropical regions, has attracted attention as a natural reinforcement for concrete applications. This study evaluated the mechanical behavior of cementitious composites reinforced with low contents of coconut fiber (0.10%, 0.20%, and 0.30% w/w). The reference mixture presented an average axial compressive strength of approximately 15.8 MPa and an average diametral tensile strength of approximately 8.0 MPa. The incorporation of 0.10% coconut fiber resulted in the highest average mechanical performance among the evaluated mixtures. Axial compressive strength showed a slight increase to approximately 15.9 MPa, while diametral tensile strength increased to approximately 9.4 MPa. Higher fiber contents (0.20% and 0.30%) resulted in reductions in compressive strength, with no substantial additional gains in diametral tensile strength. The incorporation of coconut fibers also modified the fracture behavior of the composites, indicating reduced brittleness and possible crack-bridging action. Overall, the results suggest that low fiber incorporation may contribute to improved tensile-related performance without significantly compromising compressive strength. Among the investigated compositions, 0.10% (w/w) presented the most balanced mechanical behavior, demonstrating the potential of coconut fiber as a sustainable reinforcement material for cementitious composites in civil construction.

• Periodical: Advanced Materials Research (Volume 1190)
• Pages: 131-138
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/p-K64KNy
• Online since: July 2026
• Authors: Danielle Ferreira dos Santos*, Philippe Bachmeyer de Meirelles
• Keywords: Cementitious Composites, Coconut Fiber, Mechanical Performance

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