Enhancement of Sulfate Resistance in Dune Sand Mortars through Polypropylene Fiber Incorporation

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of different polypropylene fiber (PPF) dosages (0.1% and 0.15%) and lengths (12 mm and 18 mm) on dune mortar (DM) modified with river sand (RS) at a replacement ratio of 50%. The main objective is to evaluate the durability of this fiber-reinforced mortar in a sulfate-rich environment. Compressive strength was assessed at 28, 60, and 180 days, along with mass loss and strength degradation analyses. Microstructural characteristics were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX). while porosity (P) and sorptivity tests were performed to evaluate permeability. The results reveal that PPF reinforcement significantly enhances sulfate resistance, reducing deterioration rates in mass and compressive strength by up to 46% and 40.87%, respectively. Additionally, water absorption and sorptivity coefficient (S) decreased to 83.91% and 86.36%, respectively, compared with the control. The synergy between modified sand content and PPF reinforcement demonstrates potential for improving sulfate durability, making it a viable solution for concrete applications in aggressive environments.