Matéria (Rio de Janeiro)

Influence of ceramic waste powder (CWP) in strength and

durability performance of kenaf fiber reinforced concrete

Journal: Matéria (Rio de Janeiro)

Manuscript ID RMAT-2024-0774.R2

Manuscript Type: Original Article

Date Submitted by the

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31-Jul-2025
Author:

Complete List of Authors: Shanmugam, Karthik; Jai Shriram Engineering College

Shanavas, Shaniya; KPR Institute of Engineering and Technology, M. E
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Structural Engineering
S, Anandaraj; KPR Institute of Engineering and Technology, Civil
Engineering
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Ramasamy, SARAVANAKUMAR; KPR Institute of Engineering and

Technology, Civil Engineering

Kenaf fiber, Ceramic Waste Powder, Mechanical properties, Acid attack,

Keyword:
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Chloride Penetration
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Influence of ceramic waste powder (CWP) in strength and durability
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performance of kenaf fiber reinforced concrete
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11 Karthik Shanmugam1, Anandaraj Subramaniam2, Shaniya Shanavas2, Saravanakumar
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13 Ramasamy2
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16 1Jai Shriram Engineering College, Department of Civil Engineering, Tirupur, Tamilnadu, India
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18 2KPR Institute of Engineering and Technology, Department of Civil Engineering. Coimbatore, Tamilnadu,
19 India.
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21 e-mail: karthi.psk1999@[Link], umailanandkrish@[Link], shaniyashanavas@[Link],
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22 saravanakumartg@[Link]
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24 ABSTRACT
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25 Considering the demand for a more resource efficient, cost effective and eco-friendly construction material, this
26 innovative work aims at exploring the implication of deploying the combination of kenaf fiber (KF) and ceramic
27 waste powder (CWP) as partial river sand replacement on the concrete’s mechanical and durability characteristics.
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A two-phased experimental work is carried out. Initially, evaluating the impact of ceramic waste powder (CWP)
29 in varying proportions (20-80%) on the concrete’s mechanical attributes, followed by the impact of kenaf fiber
30 (KF) (0-2%) + optimum ceramic waste powder (CWP) content on the concrete properties. Mechanical
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Characteristics after underwater immersion of the specimen for 7, 14 and 28 days were analysed, revealing that a
32 20% ceramic waste powder (CWP) substitution led to a 9.2% increase in compressive strength, a 19.1% increase
33 in flexural strength, and a 2.7% increase in split tensile strength at 28 days. Phase two assessed kenaf fiber (KF)
34 (0–2%) inclusion alongside 20% CWP. A 1% fiber addition resulted in a 35.7% rise in flexural strength and an
35 18% increase in split tensile strength, although compressive strength slightly declined. Durability was evaluated
36 using acid attack and rapid chloride penetration tests. The 20% CWP + 0.5% KF mix showed reduced strength
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37 and weight loss under acid attack and exhibited low chloride permeability. The investigation proved that at
38 optimal combination level the deployment of ceramic waste powder (CWP) and Kenaf fiber (KF) in concrete has
39 the capability to produce better durability and mechanical qualities while fostering sustainability through waste
40 reduction and the use of natural fibre. Further, without compromising the structural performance, this
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41 investigation advances the creation of ecologically friendly building materials.

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43 Keywords: Kenaf fiber, Ceramic Waste Powder, Mechanical properties, Acid attack, Chloride Penetration
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45 1. INTRODUCTION
46 Concrete has become one of the most harnessed man-made resources across the globe. However, regardless of
47 how, the methods deployed for the production of concrete and its dependence on the virgin natural resources
48 has raised environmental concerns. Moreover, the rising demand for concrete has increased the need for
49 innovation in the construction industry to make the material used more resource efficient, cost effective and
50 eco-friendly. Such being the case, numerous researches have been carried out in order to achieve sustainability
51 and reduce environmental impact. Infusion and substitution of constituent materials either partially or fully
52 with recycled or waste material is studied on a large scale. Of late, replacements for synthetic fibres with natural
53 fibres have gained a lot of attention. Among these alternatives, natural fibers such as luffa, coconut coir, abaca,
54 bamboo, jute and kenaf fiber have drawn attention due to their ability to enhance ductility, crack resistance,
55 and sustainability. Proper surface treatment and optimized volume fraction of fibers have shown improved
56 mechanical and durability performance in concrete composites [1-4]. In the context of inflated resource
57 exploitation in the production of concrete, studies show that Natural River Sand (FA) and its over utilization
58 plays a major role in inducing environmental sequels. This opens an opportunity to investigate the possible
59 replacements for fines and its performance [5]. Industrial debris like marble dust, granite dust, crushed rock,
60 ceramic waste, recycled glass, brick, plastic and rubber aggregates, fly ash etc are wielded as replacements and

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3 the concrete’s strength and durability aspects are compared to classical concrete [6]. Ceramic waste powder
4 (CWP), as a waste material has high potential as partial substitute for sand reducing the demand for natural
5 river sand and further enhancing the concrete’s properties [7-9]. In this approach, investigation is carried out
6 on the prospects of deploying CWP as a partial alternative to fine aggregate and Kenaf Fibre (KF) as natural
7 reinforcement in concrete as a suitable replacement for traditional concrete.
8 Studies reveal that Kenaf Fiber depicts notable increase in the toughness as well as causes initiation of
9 distributed cracking in concrete [10]. It was also noted that when Kenaf Fiber is deployed in High strength
10 concrete, a decline in the compressive properties whereas flexural and tensile properties improved [11]. On
11 treating the Kenaf fibers with Alkaline solution, surface roughness as well as the adhesion factor of the fiber is
12 enhanced resulting in increased durability properties [12]. Further, prior investigation reveals that deploying a
13 volume fraction between 0.5% - 1% showed desirable enhancement in the concrete’s tensile properties almost
14 equalling in compressive characters [13-14]. Changing proportions of the fibre's length and volume also caused
15 a change in the workability of the resulting concrete [15]. When compared to the standard specimen, Kenaf
16 Fiber enhanced porosity and water absorption at a volume of 1.5% and length of 40 mm. However, only at a
17 volume between 0.75% and 1.0% and a length of 20 mm to 30 mm of KF did the chloride penetration and
18 resistance to sulphate and acid assault continue to be valid. Additional increase revealed a decline in the
19 concrete’s strength features (2023)[16]. The fact that there are only countable sources available for the
20 exploitation of Ceramic waste powder as a replacement for fine aggregate suggests that this field has a lot yet
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to be explored. Studies and analyses of CWP's structural characteristics as a cement substitute in concrete have
22 been conducted. But research on CWP as a replacement for fines is still under development. Having identical
23 chemical components with river sand, CWP has high potential which can be harnessed to produce quality
24 substitutes. Although ceramic waste powder has been studied as a binder replacement, in this study it is
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25 exclusively investigated as a fine aggregate substitute in concrete to obtain enhanced performance [17]. The
26 structural attributes of both the partial and complete replacement of Fine Aggregate with ceramic waste tile
27 was assessed and concluded that replacement below 60% resulted in the decreased water absorption and
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permeability, conversely improvising strength for replacement value up to 100% [18]. The replacement of fine
29 aggregate with ceramic tile waste aggregate lowered the flowability in ultra-high-performance concrete,
30 nevertheless, 100% replacement raised the strength parameters and internal curing along with gradation factors
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led to improvements in pore structure and ITZ [19]. It has been further acknowledged that ceramic waste
32 powder displayed significant improvement in workability and strength properties [20]. Prior research shows
33 that the optimum substitution value for Ceramic waste powder in place of fine aggregate in concrete inorder to
34 achieve improved mechanical properties was 10% for M25 grade of concrete [21]. Further, deploying ceramic
35 waste powder with coir fiber at an optimum proportion of 20% exhibited improved strength characteristics
36 [22]. According to the experimental findings, incorporating up to 10% bone china ceramic waste in self-
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37 compacting concrete resulted in enhanced mechanical properties [23]. The enhanced performance of self-
38 compacting concrete was primarly attributed to the finer particle size and pozzolonic activity of bone china
39 ceramic powder waste, combined with superior filling ability of granite waste [24]. Ecological and economic
40 assessments indicated that self-compacting concrete mixes incorporating bone china ceramic waste powder
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41 and granite cutting waste exhibited reduced energy, lower carbon dioxide emissions, and decreased overall
42 material costs [25].
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44 Ceramic Waste Powder (CWP) in this study is exclusively used as a partial replacement for fine
45 aggregate, not as a binder. The role of CWP is to improve the mechanical and durability characteristics of
46 concrete by enhancing particle packing and contributing to microstructural densification. Amongst the several
47 natural fibers which has gained significant attention especially in terms of improving toughness, ductility and
48 crack resistance in concrete, kenaf fiber remains an excellent choice in terms of the environmental benefits and
49 mechanical enhancements they offer. Similarly, CWP on the other hand is a potential river sand substitute
50 which remains underexplored. Though individually these components result in concrete’s enhanced
51 performance, the combination of kenaf fiber along with ceramic waster powder as partial substitution for fine
52 aggregate has not been explored. This study investigates the possibility of using this mixture to create an
53 affordable, environmentally friendly substitute for conventional concrete that has mechanical and durability
54 characteristics similar to those of standard mix.
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56 2. MATERIALS
57 OPC 53 grade cement was used as the binding material and it is purchased from Coimbatore region. As per IS
58 Code, the cement's specific gravity value, specific surface value, fineness, and consistency limit are 3.08, 3256
59 cm2/g, 3.1%, and 27%, respectively. River sand collected from Coimbatore region is deployed as fines
60 aggregate with specific gravity 2.63 and fineness modulus 2.32. Coarse Aggregate material used confirms to

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3 IS 383:1970 with a specific gravity value of 2.71and fineness value 5.88. The results of the physical parameters
4 of aggregate are shown in Table 1. CWP containing silica, clay and feldspar obtained from industrial waste
5 crushed and ground to the proper size with specific gravity 2.43 is used in increasing proportions - 0% - 80%
6 as cement substitute. Table 2 represents the chemical composition of ceramic waste powder. Properly treated
7 kenaf fiber with an average length of 30 mm and diameter 200 µm is used as an alternative natural
8 reinforcement at varying length proportions and volume. Tap water is used for facilitating the chemical
9 reactions.
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13 Table 1. PHYSICAL ATTRIBUTES OF AGGREGATES
14 [Link] Attributes Fines Coarse Aggregate
15 1 Specific Gravity 2.63 2.71
16 2 Fineness Modulus 2.32 5.88
17 3 % Water absorption 0.86 0.97
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Table 2. CHEMICAL MAKEUP OF CWP
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21 Constituent Fines CWP
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23 SiO2 22.13 64.17
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Al2O3 6.37 19.3
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26 Fe2O3 6.12 8.34
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28 CaO 47.98 1.89
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29 MgO 4.83 1.94

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31 SO3 2.53 0.81
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32 K2O 0.76 1.83

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34 Na2O 0.43 2.62
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LOI 2.89 2.3
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[Link] DESIGN
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A control Concrete mix of M25 grade concrete was designed as per the guidelines of IS 10262, targeting a
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42 compressive strength of 25 MPa at 28 days. The water cement ratio was maintained at 0.46, and the mix
43 proportions were determined based on weight batching with a ratio of 1:1.58:2.71. The detailed quantities of
44 materials used per cubic meter of concrete are listed in table 3. This control mix was used for comparative
45 evaluation of all experimental mixes containing ceramic waste powder and kenaf fiber.
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Table 3. Mix Proportions
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Coarse Water Cement
49 Cement Fine Aggregate Water
Aggregate Ratio
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382 606 1040 177 0.46
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53 3.1 Workability
54 In Phase I (CWP) only, workability decreased with increasing replacement levels of fine aggregate. At 20%
55 CWP replacement, the slump value reduced by 8.2% compared to control mix, attributed to the finer particle
56 size and increased water demand of the CWP. However, the mix remained workable without the need of
57 plasticizers. In phase II (CWP + Kenaf fiber), the addition of kenaf fiber further reduced to slump
58 significantly. At 1% fiber content the slump reduction was nearly 18.5% from the control. This is due to high
59 surface area and absorption characteristics of kenaf fibers, which reduce free water availability. Mixtures
60 containing up to 1% kenaf fiber remained compactable with mechanical vibration despite the decrease in

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3 workability. However, after 1.5%, the mixture showed signs of segregation and weak cohesiveness, which
4 results in a true slump that is appropriate for pavements.
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6 4. METHODS
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8 A total of 180 specimens were casted (90 specimens per phase). In the first phase, 90 specimens (concrete
9 cube, cylinder and prism) were casted with ceramic waste powder acting as an alternative material for sand
10 with 20% to 80% replacement percentage. Cube specimens of standard size 150 mm x 150 mm x 150 mm is
11 used for carrying out the compressive strength test, prismatic specimen of size 150 mm height and 150 mm
12 with is used to carry out the flexural strength test and cylindrical specimens of size 150 mm diameter and
13 300 mm height is used for carrying out the split tensile strength test as per the IS standard requirements. The
14 specimens were cured under water for 28 days and the compressive, flexural and split tensile tests were
15 conducted on the 7th, 14th and 28th days respectively to find the optimum replacement percent. In the second
16 phase, another 90 specimens (concrete cube, cylinder and prism) were casted with constant percentage of
17 CWP and kenaf fiber was added in varying proportion ranging from 0 to 2%. Concrete cubes were immersed
18 in two different acid solutions 5% hydrochloric acid and 5% sulphuric acid by volume. The initial pH values
19 of the solutions were 1.1 and were monitored periodically throughout a 60 days’ immersion period. The acid
20 solutions were stored in containers and the solution was replaced every 15 days to maintain acidic
21 concentration. The temperature of the exposure environment was maintained at 26 degrees matching standard
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22 laboratory curing conditions. After 60 days’ specimens were surface dried and changes in weight loss and
23 strength loss were recorded. Additionally, rapid chloride penetration test was carried out in laboratory as a
24 part of durability test. Strength and weight loss was determined in acid attack and chloride permeability was
identified in the rapid chloride penetration test. 36 concrete cube specimens were casted and deployed for the
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26 acid attack for determining the strength and weight loss parameters. The overall research framework is shown
27 in figure 1. Phase I involved the assessment of mechanical properties of concrete with varying CWP
28 replacement levels (20% - 80%). Phase II evaluated the combined effect of 20% CWP and varying kenaf
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29 fiber content (0% - 2%) on concrete properties, including strength and durability metrics.
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Figure 1: Overview of Experimental Methodology
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60 5. RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

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4 5.1. Influence of ceramic waste powder on mechanical properties of concrete:
5 The possible strength tests were conducted on the specimen to study the influence of CWP on the mechanical
6 behaviour of concrete and the results obtained is elaborated as below.
7 5.1.1. Compressive Strength
8 Compressive Strength Test on the specimen was conducted as per IS 516:1959 and Figure 2 depicts the results
9 obtained after compressive strength analysis on the specimens with varying CWP content ranging from 20-
10 80% after being immersed under water for 7, 14 and 28 days. The test results indicated that at the end of 28
11 days of curing, 9.2% increase in the concrete’s compressive strength was achieved compared to standard
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sample which declined further as the replacement percentage increased CWP in place of sand. This
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improvement in the strength may be attributed to the pozzolanic reaction of CWP with Ca(OH)2 leading to the
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formation of CSH gel which enhanced the bonding matrix. Further, the finer CWP particles act as micro fillers,
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improving the particle packing and reducing voids. However, beyond 20% replacement, the strength declined
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due to the dilution of the cementitious matrix and insufficient hydration products. Similar trends were reported
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18 by MohammedHossein et al. (2019) who noted an optimal mechanical response at lower replacement ratios
19 and a decline thereafter due to the loss of binder cohesion.
20 5.1.2. Flexural Strength
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22 Flexural Strength Test on the specimen were conducted on the specimens as per IS 516:1959 and Figure 3
23 depicts the results obtained after Flexural behaviour analysis on the specimens with varying CWP content
24 ranging from 20-80% after being immersed under water for 7, 14 and 28 days. The test results indicated that
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25 at the end of 28 days of curing, 19.1% increase in the concrete’s flexural strength was achieved compared to
26 standard sample which declined further as the replacement percentage increased CWP in place of sand. Denser
27 packing, improved particle distribution, and the pozzolanic reaction may all contribute to a modest increase in
28 flexural strength. Sudden failure is avoided and crack resistance is improved by the decreased porosity.
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29 Concrete's resistance to tensile stress may be impacted by a drop in natural sand over 15%, which may have a
30 detrimental effect on interfacial bonding. Flexural strength declines above 20% replacements because of
31 insufficient cementitious matrix and decreased aggregate interlocking.
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33 5.1.3. Split Tensile Strength
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Split tensile Strength Test on the specimen was conducted as per IS 5816:1999 and Figure 4 depicts the results
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obtained after tensile strength analysis on the specimens with varying CWP content ranging from 20-80% after
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being immersed under water for 7, 14 and 28 days. The test results indicated that at the end of 28 days of
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curing, 2.7% increase in the concrete’s tensile strength was achieved compared to standard sample which
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declined further as the replacement percentage increased CWP in place of sand. This marginal improvement is
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40 primarily because of the enhanced microstructure and reduced porosity from fine CWP particles. However, at
higher CWP levels, the decrease in the bond strength between the aggregate and cement paste led to the
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42 performance deformation. Split tensile strength usually stays the same as regular concrete. By better
43 distributing stresses, the enhanced density and microstructure stop cracks from spreading.
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Compressive Strength (MPa)

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Replacement % of CWP
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60 Figure 2: Compressive strength of concrete with different % of CWP replacing fine aggregate at 7, 14 and 28 days

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9 Flexural Strength (MPa) 5
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19 Replacement % of CWP
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21 Figure 3: Flexural Strength variation with increasing CWP content after 7 and 28 days
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Split Tensile Strength (MPa)

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42 Figure 4: Split Tensile Strength results for concrete with increasing CWP percentages at 7 and 28 days
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44 5.2. Influence of 20% ceramic waste powder and kenaf fiber in mechanical properties of concrete:
45 5.2.1. Compressive Strength
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Figure 5 shows the results of compressive strength study on specimens with a constant 20% replacement of
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sand with CWP content and different percentages of kenaf fiber ranging from 0-2% in the sample after
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immersing in water for 7, 14, and 28 days. The test findings revealed that after 28 days of curing, the specimen
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containing 1% kenaf fiber and 20% CWP as sand replacement showed a drop in compressive strength when
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compared to the standard sample. As the fiber fraction in concrete increased, the compressive behaviour
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revealed a decreasing trend in the values.
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53 This can be attributed to increased air entrainment and reduced workability due to fiber addition, which leads
54 to potential voids and weak spots. Moreover, non-uniform fiber distribution act as stress concentrators,
55 reducing compressive load-bearing capacity. Although fibers offer flexibility, if they are not evenly distributed,
56 they may somewhat lower compressive strength. Kenaf fiber, at about 0.5% by volume, improves post-failure
57 ductility and crack resistance while preserving compressive strength. Fibers that are more than 0.5% can lower
58 workability, raise air content, and have a detrimental effect on compressive strength.
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60 5.2.2. Flexural Strength

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3 Figure 6 shows the results of compressive strength study on specimens with a constant 20% replacement of
4 sand with CWP content and different percentages of kenaf fiber ranging from 0-2% in the sample after
5 immersing in water for 7, 14, and 28 days. The test findings revealed that after 28 days of curing, the specimen
6 containing 1% kenaf fiber and 20% CWP as sand replacement showed almost 35.7% increase in Flexural
7 response when compared to the standard sample. As the fiber fraction in concrete increased, the Flexural
8 response seemed to reveal a decreasing trend in the values.
9 This substantial improvement is due to the ability of the fibers to bridge cracks, which enhances post-cracking
10 ductility and energy absorption. The CWP matrix contributes to a denser, more uniform structure that supports
11 fiber interaction. The fibers' capacity to disperse stress and postpone the formation of cracks under bending
12 loads results in an improvement in flexural strength. Fiber content above 1% may result in void formation and
13 clumping, which lowers flexural strength. In addition to kenaf fibers' ability to control cracks, CWP increases
14 matrix density, which raises flexural strength. Concrete that contains 1% fibers is more resistant to cracking
15 without sacrificing strength.
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18 5.2.3. Split Tensile Strength
19 Figure 7 shows the results of compressive strength study on specimens with a constant 20% replacement of
20 sand with CWP content and different percentages of kenaf fiber ranging from 0-2% in the sample after
21 immersing in water for 7, 14, and 28 days. The test findings revealed that after 28 days of curing, the specimen
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22 containing 1% kenaf fiber and 20% CWP as sand replacement showed almost 18% increase in tensile properties
23 when compared to the standard sample. As the fiber fraction in concrete increased, the tensile properties seemed
24 to reveal a decreasing trend in the values.
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25 The fibers improve post-crack tensile performance and bridge microcracks. With 20% CWP and 1% fiber
26 content, the split tensile strength is marginally better than that of traditional concrete. Effective fracture
27 management and stress redistribution usually result in improved split tensile strength.
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Compressive Strength (MPa)

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41 CC 0.50% 1% 1.50% 2%
42 20% CWP with varying proportions of Kenaf Fiber
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44 Figure 5: Compressive Strength of concrete with 20% CWP and varying Kenaf fiber contents after 7, 14 and 28 days
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Flexural Strength (MPa)

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53 3 28
DAYS
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CC 0.50% 1% 1.50% 2%
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59 20% CWP with varying proportions of Kenaf Fiber
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3 Figure 6: Flexural Strength of concrete with 20% CWP and kenaf fiber at 7 and 28 days
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8 Split Tensile Strength (MPa) 4
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21 20% CWP with varying proportions of Kenaf Fiber
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25 Figure 7: Split Tensile strength results of concrete with 20% CWP and Kenaf Fiber at 7 and 28 days
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28 5.3. Durability studies:
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29 The durability properties for the optimum values of CWP and Kenaf fiber in concrete in comparison with the
30 standard specimen is assessed and elaborated as below.
31 5.3.1. Loss in Strength due to acid attack
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32 Figure 8 and Figure 9 depicts the loss in the strength of concrete specimen due to HCl and H2SO4 attack
33 respectively for sample with 20% replacement of sand with CWP alone and sample with 20% CWP + 0.5%
34 Kenaf Fiber when compared to the standard specimen. While the strength loss in concrete sample with 20%
35 CWP due to HCL and H2SO4 is 2.5% and 3.2% lesser than the standard sample and for the specimen with 20%
36 CWP and 0.5% Kenaf Fiber the strength loss observed is 1.8% lesser than the standard sample for both the
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Loss in Strength (%)

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53 Figure 8: Percentage Strength Loss of concrete specimens exposed to HCl for 60 days
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Loss in Strength (%)

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17 Sample
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20 Figure 9: Percentage Strength Loss of concrete specimens exposed to H2SO4 for 60 days
21 In hydrochloric acid, by raising matrix density and decreasing calcium hydroxide concentration, using CWP
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22 as a 20% substitute for sand strengthens concrete's resistance to hydrochloric acid assault. The concrete matrix's
23 spaces are filled by the finer CWP particles, which lower porosity and prevent acid penetration, initially
24 preserving strength. The fibers resist cracking and acid penetration over the first 28 days because they are
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25 largely intact. By strengthening fracture resistance and lowering acid penetration, the 0.5% kenaf fiber addition
26 increases the concrete's early resistance to HCl attack.
27 In the sulphuric acid attack, Calcium hydroxide is used by the pozzolanic reaction of ceramic waste powder,
28 enhancing the material's initial resistance to acid assault. Acid penetration is slowed by the filler effect of CWP,
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29 which refines the pore structure. Gradual cracking brought on by gypsum and ettringite production over time
30 results in a greater loss of strength. Gypsum and ettringite, which result from the reaction of sulfuric acid with
31 calcium hydroxide and other cementitious materials, produce expansion, cracking, and spalling. Over time,
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32 natural fibers like kenaf may deteriorate due to acid absorption, losing their capacity to reinforce. This may
33 lead to microcracks that let additional acid seep farther into the matrix of the concrete.
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35 5.3.2. Loss in Weight due to Acid Attack
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37 Figure 10 and Figure 11 depicts the loss in the weight of concrete specimen due to HCl and H2SO4 attack
38 respectively for sample with 20% replacement of sand with CWP alone and sample with 20% CWP + 0.5%
39 Kenaf Fiber when compared to the standard specimen. While the weight loss in concrete sample with 20%
40 CWP due to HCL and H2SO4 is 2.14% and 1.84% lesser than the standard sample and for the specimen with
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41 20% CWP and 0.5% Kenaf Fiber the weight loss observed is 2.66% and 2.08% lesser than the standard sample
42 for HCL and H2SO4 respectively.
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Loss in Weight (%)

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57 Figure 10: Weight Loss in concrete specimens after 60 days HCL exposure
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6 10

Loss in Weight (%)

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18 Figure 11 Weight Loss in concrete specimens after 60 days H2SO4 exposure
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In the hydrochloric acid attack, Concrete that contains 20% ceramic waste powder (CWP) instead of sand has
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better resistance to HCl attack and loses less weight than normal concrete. Because of its improved matrix
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density and lower calcium hydroxide concentration, ceramic waste powder-induced concrete exhibits less
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weight loss in the early phases. By bridging cracks early on, the fibers reduce acid penetration and initial weight
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loss. Weight loss is initially decreased by the combination of 0.5% kenaf fibers and 20% CWP, but steady
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degradation results from continued exposure.
26
27 In sulphuric acid attack, Because of its pozzolanic qualities, ceramic waste powder reduces the amount of
28 material susceptible to acid attack by consuming free Ca(OH)₂ during secondary reactions. By acting as
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29 microfillers, the tiny CWP particles lower porosity and restrict the entry of sulfuric acid. Although gypsum and
30 ettringite continue to form, the mass loss is less severe due to the decreased Ca(OH)₂ availability. Weight loss
31 during the initial phase is limited by enhanced matrix density from CWP and early crack control by kenaf
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32 fibers.
33
5.3.3 Rapid Chloride Penetration test (RCPT)
34
35 Table 4: RCPT RESULTS
36
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37
38 Concrete sample Charge Passed (Coulombs) Chloride permeability
39
40
Control 1973.68 Low
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42
43 20% CWP 1841.36 Low
44
45
20% CWP + 1 % KF 1769.28 Low
46
47
48 RCPT results for control sample, 20% Ceramic Waste powder and 20% Ceramic Waste Powder with 1%
49 optimum Kenaf fiber is shown in table 4. The fine particle size and pozzolonic activity of CWP lead to the
50 formation of C-S-H gel, which densifies the matrix and refines the pore structure. As micro fillers, the tiny
51 CWP particles lessen porosity and the possible channels for chloride ions. Chloride ion penetration is slowed
52 by CWP-modified concrete's denser matrix and reduced porosity. By bridging micro cracks and lowering entry
53 points for chloride ions, the fibers increase crack resistance. The thick matrix produced by CWP guarantees
54 long-term resistance to chloride intrusion, even if kenaf fibers may deteriorate over time. By preventing early
55 cracks, kenaf fibers help to prevent chloride intrusion.
56 The increasing trends in performance indicate that the CWP’s pozzolanic activity assists with strength
57 enhancement up to optimal grade and beyond 20% there is dilution of the cementitious matrix. The fiber
58 bridging effect of kenaf enhances tensile and flexural performance but slightly impairs compressive strength
59 due to potential fiber clustering. These findings align with prior research by Elsaid et al. (2011) and Zhou et
60 al. (2020), reinforcing the role of fiber treatment and optimized dosage. The enhanced acid resistance and low

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3 chloride permeability are attributed to densified microstructure due to CWP and crack-bridging by fibers,
4 supporting conclusions by Mohammad Hossein et al. (2019).
5 To build on the findings of this study, future research should investigate the long term durability performance
6 of concrete containing CWP and KF under freeze thaw cycles, sulphate exposure and alkaline environments.
7 Additionally, microstructural analysis techniques such as scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray
8 Diffraction (XRD) should be employed to validate the observed improvements in strength and durability.
9
10 6. CONCLUSION:
11 1. Optimal mechanical performance was achieved at 20% CWP replacement for river sand resulting
12 in 9.2% higher compressive strength, 19.1% higher flexural strength and 2.7 % higher tensile strength.
13 2. Addition of 1% kenaf fiber with 20% CWP enhanced flexural and tensile strengths by 35.7% and
14 18% respectively, though a marginal drop in compressive strength was observed.
15 3. Adding 0.5% kenaf fiber with 20 5 CWP however improved the compressive strength and it is
16 considered as the optimal fiber proportion to be added to the concrete mix.
17 4. Durability assessments with optimal CWP and Kenaf fiber proportion in concrete confirmed
18 superior resistance to HCl and H2SO4 acid attacks, with strength and weight loss reductions of up to 3.2% and
19 2.66% compared to control.
20 5. The combination of 20% CWP and 0.5% kenaf fiber exhibited low chloride permeability (1769.28
21 Coulombs), improving long-term durability.
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6. The use of ceramic waste powder and kenaf fiber not only improve performance but also promotes
23
economy principles in construction materials. As limited literature exists on the specific combination, the
24
results provide a unique contribution to sustainable concrete development and serve as a foundation for further
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research in hybrid eco-friendly mixes.
26
27 7. REFERENCE:
28
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[1]. GEREMEW, A., WINNE, P., DEMISSIE, T., & BACKER, H, “Treatment of Natural Fiber for Application in Concrete
29
Pavement”, Advances in Civil Engineering, 2021. [Link]
30
31 [2]. LUHAR, S., SUNTHARALINGAM, T., NAVARATNAM, S., LUHAR, I., THAMBOO, J., POOLOGANATHAN,
iew

32 K., & GATHEESHGAR, P, “Sustainable and Renewable Bio-Based Natural Fibres and Its Application for 3D Printed
33 Concrete: A Review”, Sustainability, 2020. [Link]
34
[3]. JAMAL A. ABDALLA, RAMI A. HAWILEH, BAHURUDEEN, A., JYOTHSNA, G., SOFI, A., SHANMUGAM,
35
VIGNESHWARAN., THOMAS, B.S., "A comprehensive review on the use of natural fibers in cement/geopolymer
36
concrete: A step towards sustainability", Case Studies in Construction Materials, v.19,2023.
On

37 [Link]
38
39 [4]. AHAMED, M., RAVICHANDRAN, P., & KRISHNARAJA, A., Natural Fibers in Concrete – A Review, IOP
40 Conference Series: Materials Science and Engineering, v. 1055, 2021. [Link]
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[5]. AGRAWAL, U.S., WANJARI,S, P., NARESH,D.N., "Characteristic study of geopolymer fly ash sand as a
42
replacement to natural river sand", Construction and Building Materials, v.150, p. 681-688, 2017.
43 [Link]
44
45 [6]. RIFA ASIM, SUBHANI, SK M., BAHURUDEEN, A., KUMAR GEDELA SANTHOSH., "A systematic comparison
46 of performance of recycled concrete fine aggregates with other alternative fine aggregates: An approach to find a
47 sustainable alternative to river sand", Journal of Building Engineering, v.78, pp. 107695, 2023.
48 [Link]
49 [7]. SIVAPRAKASH, G., KUMAR, V., & SAIKIA, L., “Experimental Study on Partial Replacement of Sand by Ceramic
50 Waste in Concrete”, International journal of chemical sciences, pp. 266-274, 2016.
51
52 [8]. MAWASHEE, R., SHHATHA, M., & ALATIYA, Q., “Waste ceramic as partial replacement for sand in integral
53 waterproof concrete: The durability against sulphate attack of certain properties”, Open Engineering, v.13, 2023.
54 [Link]
55 [9]. MOHAMMADHOSSEINI, H., LIM, N., TAHIR, M., ALYOUSEF, R., & SAMADI, M., “Performance evaluation of
56 green mortar comprising ceramic waste as cement and fine aggregates replacement”, SN Applied Sciences, v. 1, pp. 1-7,
57 2019. [Link]
58
59
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1
2
3 [10]. ELSAID, A., DAWOOD, M., SERACINO, R., & BOBKO, C., “Mechanical properties of kenaf fiber reinforced
4 concrete”, Construction and Building Materials, v. 25, pp. 1991-2001, 2011.
5 [Link]
6
[11]. ZHOU, C., CAI, L., CHEN, Z., & LI, J., “Effect of kenaf fiber on mechanical properties of high-strength cement
7
composites”, Construction and Building Materials, v. 263, pp. 121007, 2020.
8 [Link]
9
10 [12]. MAHZABIN, M., HOCK, L., HOSSAIN, M., & KANG, L., “The influence of addition of treated kenaf fibre in the
11 production and properties of fibre reinforced foamed composite”, Construction and Building Materials, 2018.
12 [Link]
13
[13]. MUN, C., KWONG, K., LEE, F., & LIM, J., “Mechanical, sound and thermal properties of recycled expanded
14 polystyrene concrete reinforced with 0.5% to 5.5% kenaf fibre”, European Journal of Environmental and Civil
15 Engineering, v. 26, pp. 7345 – 7358, 2021. [Link]
16
17 [14]. OGUNBODE, E., GARBA, Y., MUSA, B., OLIVER, M., DANIYA, N., & EKEKEZIE, C., “Effects of Kenaf Fibre
18 on Fresh Properties of Fibrous Concrete”, Environmental Technology and Science Journal, 2022.
19 [Link]
20 [15] NOOR ABBAS, A. G., NORA AZNIETA ABDUL AZIZ, F., ABDAN, K., AZLINE MOHD NASIR, N., & FAHIM
21
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HUSEIEN, G., “Experimental evaluation and statistical modelling of kenaf fiber-reinforced geopolymer concrete”,
22 Construction and Building Materials, v. 367, pp.130228, 2023. [Link]
23
24 [16]. NOOR ABBAS, A. G., NORA AZNIETA ABDUL AZIZ, F., ABDAN, K., AZLINE MOHD NASIR, N., & FAHIM
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25 HUSEIEN, G., “Experimental study on durability properties of kenaf fibre-reinforced geopolymer concrete”, Construction
26 and Building Materials, v. 396, pp. 132160, 2023. [Link]
27 [17]. MOHAMMADHOSSEINI, H., LIM, N., TAHIR, M., ALYOUSEF, R., SAMADI, M., ALABDULJABBAR, H., &
28
ev

MOHAMED, A., Effects of Waste Ceramic as Cement and Fine Aggregate on Durability Performance of Sustainable
29 Mortar. Arabian Journal for Science and Engineering, v. 45, pp. 3623-3634, 2020. [Link]
30 04198-7.
31
iew

32 [18]. MEENA, R. V., JAIN, J. K., BENIWAL, A. S., & CHOUHAN, H. S., “Sustainable self-compacting concrete
containing waste ceramic tile aggregates: Fresh, mechanical, durability, and microstructural properties”, Journal of
33
Building Engineering, v.57, pp. 104941, 2022. [Link]
34
35 [19]. LIQING ZHANG, HAO SHEN, KAICHENG XU, WENYI HUANG, YUNYANG WANG, MENGCHENG CHEN,
36 BAOGUO HAN, "Effect of ceramic waste tile as a fine aggregate on the mechanical properties of low-carbon ultrahigh
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37 performance concrete", Construction and Building Materials, v. 370, pp. 130595, 2023.
38 [Link]
39
[20]. DANIEL, R., & SANGEETHA, S., “Experimental study on concrete using waste ceramic as partial replacement of
40
aggregate”, Materials Today: Proceedings, 2021. [Link]
ly

41
42 [21]. NAJM, H., & AHMAD, S., “The Use of Waste Ceramic Optimal Concrete for a Cleaner and Sustainable Environment
43 - A Case Study of Mechanical Properties”, Civil and Environmental Engineering Reports, v. 32, pp. 85 – 115, 2022.
44 [Link]
45
[22]. ANANDARAJ, S., KRISHNARAJA, A.R., KULANTHAIVEL, P., MURUGAN, P.C., "Influence of ceramic waste
46 powder (CWP) in strength and durability performance of coir fiber reinforced concrete", Journal of Ceramic Processing
47 Research. V. 25, pp. 41-47,2024. [Link]
48
49 [23]. LILESH GAUTAM, JINENDRA KUMAR JAIN, ABHISHEK JAIN, PAWAN KALLA., “Recycling of bone china
50 ceramic waste as cement replacement to produce sustainable self-compacting concrete”, Construction and Building
51 Materials. V.315, pp.25730. [Link]
52 [24]. LILESH GAUTAM, JINENDRA KUMAR JAIN, ABHISHEK JAIN, PAWAN KALLA., “Valorization of bone-
53 china ceramic powder waste along with granite waste in self-compacting concrete”, Construction and Building Materials.
54 V.315, 125730. [Link]
55
56 [25]. LILESH GAUTAM, PAWAN KALLA, JINENDRA
57 KUMAR JAIN, RAKESH CHOUDHARY, ABHISHEK JAIN., “Robustness of self-compacting concrete incorporating
58 bone china ceramic waste powder along with granite cutting waste for sustainable development”, Journal of Cleaner
59 Production. V.367, 132969. [Link]
60

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3 Reviewer 1:
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5
6 Comments:
7
8 1. CWP is sometimes referred to as a binder and sometimes as a fine aggregate replacement.
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10 Maintain consistent terminology and clarify its role in this study.
11
12 Response: As per the reviewer directions, the manuscript has been revised to consistently
13
14 describe CWP as a fine aggregate replacement. All references to CWP as a binder have been
15
16 corrected accordingly.
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18 2. No statistical significance or variability (e.g., standard deviation or error bars) reported.
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20 Including these would strengthen result reliability.
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22 Response: Thank you for the valuable suggestion. Error bars have also been incorporated in
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24 the updated graphical results to reflect data variability.
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26 3. The impact of CWP and Kenaf fiber on concrete workability (slump, compaction, etc.) is
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28 not discussed but critical, especially for fiber-added mixes.
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Response: Thank you for your helpful suggestion. A new paragraph has been added in the mix
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32 design section to discuss the impact of CWP and Kenaf fiber on workability. It highlights the
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34 reduced slump and increased compaction challenges with higher fiber content, supported by
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36 observations during mixing and casting.
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38 4. The acid concentration, pH, temperature, and immersion setup for acid tests should be
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40 explicitly stated for reproducibility.
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42 Response: Thank you for your observation. The methodology section has been updated to
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44 specify the acid concentrations (5% HCl and H₂SO₄), ambient room temperature (27±2°C),
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46 and immersion procedure for 60 days to ensure reproducibility.
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48 5. The detailed composition and strength of the control (reference) mix should be clearly
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50 presented in the mix design section or table.
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52 Response: Thank you for your insightful recommendation. A short paragraph and table
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54 summarizing the control mix composition has been added in the Mix Design section for clarity.
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3 6. Some literature references and background statements in the introduction are repetitive and
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5 could be condensed for better focus.
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7
Response: Thank you for the valuable suggestion. The Introduction section has been revised
8
9 for conciseness. Redundant literature summaries were merged or removed to improve focus.
10
11
12 7. Typographical Issues: A few inconsistencies (e.g., "compressive, tensile and split tensile
13 tests") and minor grammar issues should be proofread and corrected.
14
15
16 Response: Thank you for your observation. The entire manuscript has undergone proofreading
17
and resolved the minor grammar issues. Inconsistencies have been corrected for clarity and
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19 uniformity.
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8. Figure Captions: Some figures (e.g., Figure 1: Methodology) lack clarity in captioning or
23 are not well-integrated into the discussion.
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26 Response: Thank you for the valuable suggestion. Captions for all figures have been revised
27 for better clarity. Integration with the discussion has also been improved by referencing the
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29 figures more explicitly within the relevant analysis sections.

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9. Please expand the research background on the performance of eco-friendly concrete
33 specimens under special conditions. In this regard, the following references could be cited (if
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35 a suitable position is found): [1] Optimizing Self-Compacting Concrete with Bone China
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Ceramic and Granite Waste for Improved Mechanical and Durability Properties. [2]
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Robustness of self-compacting concrete incorporating bone china ceramic waste powder along
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40 with granite cutting waste for sustainable development. [3] Recycling of bone china ceramic
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42 waste as cement replacement to produce sustainable self-compacting concrete. [4] Valorization
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44 of bone-china ceramic powder waste along with granite waste in self-compacting concrete.
45
46 Response: Thank you for your insightful recommendation. A new paragraph has been added
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48 in the Introduction sections to cover eco-friendly concrete performance under special
49
conditions. The suggested references [23–25] have been cited at appropriate places.
50
51
52 10. Ensure uniformity in units (e.g., MPa, %) across tables and figures, and label axes properly
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54
(some figures lack full legends).
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56 Response: Thank you for your observation. All tables and figures have been checked and
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58 updated to ensure unit consistency (e.g., MPa, %) and complete labeling of axes.
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3 11. Expand abbreviations (e.g., CWP, KF) at first mention in the abstract and main text.
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5
6 Response: Thank you for your valuable comment. All abbreviations such as CWP (Ceramic
7
Waste Powder) and KF (Kenaf Fiber) are now expanded at their first mention in both the
8
9 abstract and the main text.
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11
12 Reviewer 2:
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14 Comments:
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16 1. The author needs to ensure that all listed references are cited properly.
17
18
19 Response: Thank you for your suggestion. Cross-verification has been done. All references
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21
listed in the bibliography are now cited appropriately in the text.
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23 2. Emphasize the novelty of combining CWP with kenaf fibers, particularly if no prior work
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exists on this specific combination.
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27 Response: Thank you for the valuable suggestion. A dedicated statement highlighting the
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29 novelty of this specific combination has been added to the Conclusion sections.
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31 3. Ensure all figures are high-resolution, properly labeled, and referenced in the text
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33
34
Response: Thank you for your valuable feedback. Figures have been updated for clarity and
35 resolution. All figures are now properly labeled and referenced in the discussion.
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38 4. Highlight specific optimal replacement levels of CWP and kenaf fiber content. Include
39 potential practical applications and suggest areas for future research
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42 Response: Thank you for the valuable suggestion. The Conclusion section now includes
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explicit mention of 20% CWP and 0.5–1% Kenaf fiber as optimal levels. Practical implications
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45 for sustainable and durable concrete in aggressive environments have been added as a future
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47 research outlook in the discussion part.
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49 5. I suggest authors can add discussion points related to the mechanism behind the reason for
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51 low chloride permeability in RCPT test.
52
53
Response: Thank you for the valuable suggestion. The discussion section has been updated to
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55 include mechanisms such as micro filler effects, matrix densification by CWP, and crack
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57 bridging by Kenaf fiber as reasons for low RCPT values.
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3 6. The authors must ensure that all sources are cited inside the text in the Introduction section.
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6 Response: Thank you for your insightful comment. We have thoroughly reviewed all the
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references cited in the Introduction section.
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9
10 Reviewer 3:
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12 Comments:
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14
15 1. The author is required to submit a Response to Review Comments form in order to clearly
16 understand the revisions that have been made.
17
18
19 Response: Thank you for the valuable suggestion. The current document serves as the official
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point-by-point response. All comments from reviewers 1–4 have been addressed thoroughly
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22 and corresponding changes are incorporated into the revised manuscript.

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Reviewer 4
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27 Comments:
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29 1. The graphs are still poorly represented. For example, fig. 2, the values in the y axis start only
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31 from 20 MPa, so it can be trimmed so that the y axis itself starts from 15 MPa or closer to 20.
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33 Fig. 9 there is overlap between caption and the y axis?
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35 Response: Thank you for the valuable suggestion. All graphs have been reformatted.
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38 2. And there is no response to reviewers file as well, where the authors should provide a point
39 by point rebuttal to the changes recommended.
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42 Response: Thank you for your valuable feedback. This document is now submitted as the
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point-by-point response to reviewers, addressing all suggested revisions and justifications.
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