An Experimental Study of the Mechanical Properties of Metakaolin Mortar Reinforced with Polypropylene

In this paper, in order to study the mechanical properties of metakaolin (MK) mortar reinforced with Polypropylene (PP) fibers, a series of experimental studies were conducted. In this study, MK acting as a strong pozzolan replaces the 10% volume of cement in the mix design. PP fibers were used in proportions of 0.05, 0.1 and 0.15%; hence, six mortar groups, control samples included, were formed. The compressive and tensile strengths of the 28-day old samples, the slump, unit weight of fresh mortar and hardened mortar were measured. Based on the results obtained, using fibers of PP and MK in cement mortars improves certain mechanical properties of fresh and hardened mortars. Using optimal proportions of MK andPP fibers in cement mortar dramatically improves certain mechanical properties, tensile strength, in particular. Additionally, reduced flow of fresh mortar caused by using PP fibers was compensated for by using MK. Based on the results thus obtained, charts were provided and optimized proportions determined.

Keywords:

Mechanical properties , Cement mortars , Metakaolin , Polypropylene fiber