Studies on fiber-reinforced concrete using industrial hemp fibers

The paper reports on tests performed on sustainable “green” concrete using industrial hemp fibers. The incorporation of hemp in concrete would save on natural resources. The demand for hemp would be a major incentive to farmers to benefit from the social impact. In the experimental program, tests’ results on standard specimens for flexure, compression, splitting tensile, modulus of elasticity, thermal conductivity, density, and slump are presented. Results indicate that the use of industrial hemp fibers led to a reduction in coarse aggregate quantity without affecting the flexural performance of concrete, in addition to a significant enhancement in ductility of load–deflection behavior.

► We investigate the effect of industrial hemp fibers on concrete properties.
► Agricultural hemp fibers may partially substitute coarse aggregates.
► Aggregates reduction in concrete lessens natural resources depletion.
► Usage of hemp fibers in concrete encourages farming activities to prosper.