Research paperAn experimental study on combined effects of glass fiber and Metakaolin on the rheological, mechanical, and durability properties of self-compacting concrete

- MK makes the concrete improves strength and durability of concrete.
- Inclusion of GF in SCC reduces the workability of concrete.
- GF exhibited large positive effect on mechanical property.
- GF reinforced MK blended SCC provides resistance to chloride ion penetration and water absorption.

Previous studies have suggested fiber reinforced self-compacting concrete (SCC) are more stable for efficient buildings. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the effects of Metkaolin (MK) and Alkali resistant glass fibers on the performance of SCC. In this study rheological (L-Box, slump flow, T50), mechanical (compressive, splitting tensile and flexural strength), and durability (chloride ion penetration and water absorption) properties were investigated. It was observed from the test results there was a reduction in workability with an increase in fiber content. It was found that glass fibers did not impart positive effect on the compressive strength of concrete. The split tensile and flexural strength of glass fibered SCC increased with increase in fiber dosage. The durability studies show that inclusion of GF marginally reduces the resistance to chloride ion and water absorption of concrete. The results show that the presence of both MK and GF in optimal percentages, can improve the mechanical properties and durability of self-compacting concrete significantly.