Experimental Studieson Viability of Using Geosynthetics as Fibers in Concrete

It is evident from literature review that in the recent decades the thrust for finding an alternative to the costly steel reinforcement is increasing, several alternatives have been tested across the globe. Some viable alternatives are found, also many techniques of replacing the steel and addition of tensile strength to concrete is studied. The methods which are found to be cost effective and feasible are also tried in construction in various areas. Once such alternative technique is providing subsidiary reinforcement in the way of addition of natural or artificial fibers to the concrete. Several fibers are also tried with concrete, some proved to be successful in adding strength and durability to the concrete but still now many fibers are in research stage only. Copious materials were introduced as additional fibers to concrete such as polypropylene, glass fibers, FRP, coir etc. This paper describes an attempt made to incorporate geosynthetics, a material is used reinforced soil as fibers in concrete. Geosynthetics are used widely aa soil reinforcement, separators, drainage, filters and also usedacross the globe in various infrastructure projects. Inspite of several studies being done in Geosynthetics with soil, Geosynthetics fiber had never been added with concrete. This paper details the attempt made to check the viability of using geosynthetics as fibers in concrete.