Feasibility Study on Using GFRP and Epoxy Resin Mix Waste Powder in Concrete to Partially Replace the Cement

ABSTRACT

Every day, a huge quantity of glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) and glass reinforced epoxy (GRE) waste powder is generated from the composite pipe industries in Oman. This powder is harmful to human beings and aquatic animals. Composite pipe manufacturing industries are struggling greatly with the disposal of waste GRE dust. At present, these GRE waste materials are buried underground without affecting the groundwater. Impervious layers are constructed to avoid seepage and protect the groundwater. Composite pipe manufacturing industries are spending huge amounts of money to save the environment from GRE waste disposal. In this experimental project, GRE waste is added to concrete to partially replace cement with proportions such as 5%, 15%, and 25%. Mechanical properties of concrete with and without GRE waste are investigated, including compressive, split tensile strength, and bending strength tests conducted experimentally. Experimental results depict that the split tensile value of concrete with 5% GRE dust is 6.45% more when compared to the control specimen. Also, compressive and bending strengths of concrete with 5% GRE dust are not much affected, and are almost equal to the control specimen.