Civil Engineering Students Explore Sustainable Alternatives to Improve Concrete Performance

University Media

The Department of Civil and Construction Engineering at the College of Engineering and Information Technology has held a scientific defense for a graduation project that examined innovative ways to enhance the performance of concrete using natural, eco-friendly materials.

The project, titled “Enhancing Concrete Performance Using Sustainable Natural Additives – A Comprehensive Evaluation of Concrete Reinforced with Sisal Plant Fibers,” was presented by a group of senior students as part of their bachelor’s degree requirements. The session was attended by the Dean of the College, Dr. Abdulraqib Ghalib.

The study investigated the use of sisal plant fibers as a sustainable alternative to traditional concrete additives. Researchers tested different fiber lengths and proportions to assess their impact on the material’s strength and durability.

Results showed that adding 0.15% of 50 mm sisal fibers significantly improved concrete performance, achieving a compressive strength of 43 MPa compared to 40 MPa in the reference mix without fibers. In contrast, higher fiber content (1.0% of 150 mm fibers) led to weaker performance. Beyond mechanical benefits, the project emphasized that natural fibers can also reduce carbon emissions and promote more environmentally sustainable construction practices.

The examination panel included Eng. Ammar Al-Ahdal (supervisor), Dr. Abdulraqib Ghalib, and Dr. Abdulkarim Al-Qadri, with Dr. Mukhtar Al-Omrani also in attendance.

This research underscores the college’s commitment to advancing applied science and preparing students to contribute innovative and sustainable solutions to the challenges facing modern engineering.