10th International Technical Conference on Frontiers of Hydraulic and Civil Engineering Technology, HCET 2025, Xiamen, Çin, 26 - 28 Eylül 2025, cilt.81, ss.346-351, (Tam Metin Bildiri)
Cement-based composites are inherently brittle and prone to cracking, which limits their durability and structural performance. To address these shortcomings, fiber reinforcement has emerged as a reliable method to enhance toughness, crack resistance, and post-crack energy absorption. This study investigates the influence of two widely used polymeric microfibers - polypropylene and nylon - on the workability and mechanical properties of fiber-reinforced micro-concretes. Unlike conventional concrete, the micro-concrete matrix used in this research excludes coarse aggregates, allowing for better fiber dispersion and interaction with the cementitious matrix. Various fiber dosages (0.1%, 0.7%, and 1.7% by volume) were tested to evaluate their effects on flowability, compressive strength, flexural strength, and flexural toughness. Results reveal that while both fiber types reduce workability, polypropylene fibers maintain acceptable flow characteristics even at higher dosages. Nylon fibers significantly enhance compressive strength at elevated dosages, whereas polypropylene fibers contribute more effectively to flexural strength and toughness. The study identifies an optimal fiber dosage that balances mechanical performance with workability, highlighting the importance of fiber selection and content in designing high-performance micro-concretes. These findings offer practical insights for tailoring fiber-reinforced composites in applications requiring enhanced flexibility and mechanical resilience.