Performance of Engineered Cementitious Composite (ECC) Substituting Coconut Fiber

The purpose of this paper is to investigate and determine the material properties of the coconut
shell fiber, to evaluate the microstructure of the ECC containing coconut shell fiber and to
determine the hardened properties of ECC containing the coconut shell fiber. Emphasis on this
study is based on the material properties of the Matag coconut fiber and the compressive strength
of 18 different mixtures of ECC. The results indicated that the Matag coconut has a significant
strength contributing to the development of ECC as well as an optimum mixture that is fit for
application of 1% of coconut fiber in the mix proportion. Additionally, in the system of binder
materials, various percentage volumes of silica fume is added whereby it improves the ductility
and strength of the ECC with a certain proportion added respectively. Therefore based on
numerous testing by comprehensively considering the compressive strength, flexural strength and
direct tensile properties, the optimal range of ECC mixture with addition of coconut fiber can be
properly selected to satisfy the demands in practical engineering solutions.