Flexural Fatigue Performance of Hemp Fiber–Reinforced Concrete Using Recycled Concrete Aggregates as a Sustainable Rigid Pavement

Abstract

This research delved into the mechanical and fatigue attributes of hemp fiber–reinforced concrete (HFRC) using both natural crushed aggregates (NCA) and recycled concrete aggregates (RCA) for sustainable rigid pavements. The additional hemp fiber ratios were 0%, 0.5%, 0.75%, and 1.0% by volume of concrete. The accelerated setting times were found due to hemp fibers facilitating rapid cement hydration. The compressive strengths were found to typically decrease with increasing hemp content. Mixes with 0.5% hemp (NCA-0.5H-FRC and RCA-0.5H-FRC) met the local road authority’s rigid pavement standards, with enhanced energy absorption and ductility. Flexural strength was optimal at 0.5% hemp, with all mixes meeting the standard 4.2 MPa. The flexural fatigue test indicated that higher hemp content significantly improved the fatigue life of HFRC under repetitive loading. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis demonstrated hemp fibers’ role in enhancing bond strength and interactions with cement matrix, thereby improving the concrete performance. While NCA mixes outperformed RCA ones, hemp fiber’s reinforcing effect was consistent across both types of aggregates. The study indicated hemp fiber’s potential in applications like pavements, highlighting 0.5% as the optimal hemp content for balancing enhanced mechanical properties while mitigating potential drawbacks. This research paves the way for the broader adoption of hemp fiber–reinforced concretes in sustainable construction endeavors.