Effect of metakaolin and silica fume with polypropylene fiber on the properties of concrete pavement incorporating taguchi analysis

Abstract

This study has investigated the comparative effects of metakaolin (MK) and silica fume (SF), combined with varying dosages of polypropylene fiber (PPF), on the mechanical properties of M25 grade concrete used in pavement. SF and MK have been used to replace 10% of cement by weight, while PPF has been added in proportions ranging from 0.25% to 1%. The results have shown a decrease in workability with the addition of SF, MK, and increasing PPF content. Maximum compressive strength has been achieved with 10% MK and SF replacement, although PPF has had minimal impact on this property. Flexural and splitting tensile strengths have peaked at 0.50% and 0.75% PPF, respectively, while density has been lowest at 1% PPF. Taguchi and regression analyses have identified PPF as the dominant factor influencing flexural and tensile strength, while MK & SFhave primarily affected compressive strength. The combination of 10% SF or MK with 0.50% PPF has yielded the best performance in flexural strength, making it suitable for urban and rural concrete road pavements.