Civil Engineering and Architecture Vol. 13(3A), pp. 2657 - 2669
DOI: 10.13189/cea.2025.131333
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Optimization of Reinforced Concrete for Cold Storage Facilities: An Experimental Analysis of the Influence of Polypropylene Fibers on Slabs under Low Temperature

Melissa A. Pungtilan ^1,*, Gilford B. Estores ^2
1 School of Graduate Studies, Mapua University, Philippines
² School of Civil, Environmental, and Geological Engineering, Mapua University, Philippines

ABSTRACT

With the present method adopted in the construction of cold storage in the Philippines, the introduction of fibers to slabs is limited, together with the suitable maximum aggregate size to attain the maximum compressive strength of concrete and prevent unwanted cracks. This study examined the effects of using 12.5 mm, 19 mm, and 25 mm maximum coarse aggregate sizes with 0%, 0.35%, 0.65%, and 1.00% polypropylene fiber (PPF) content. The average compressive strength on the 28^th day showed consistent improvement and was highest on the 19 mm coarse aggregate from 0%, 0.35%, and 0.65% fiber content. The Multiple Response Prediction model identified that a mix of 20 mm coarse aggregate size and 0.45% polypropylene fiber content can significantly enhance concrete's compressive strength to 26.814 MPa on the 28^th day. Additionally, five slabs were fabricated to assess crack development at -25℃. Initial assessments showed gradual crack development within 14 days on slabs with 0% fibers. In contrast, slabs with 0.35%, 0.65%, and 1.00% fibers exhibited maximum crack widths of 0.256 mm, 0.085 mm, and 0.075 mm, respectively. The findings demonstrated that incorporating polypropylene fibers significantly reduces cracks in concrete slabs, thus enhancing their durability and performance in cold storage applications.

KEYWORDS
Cold Storage, Compressive Strength, Low Temperature, Maximum Coarse Aggregate, Polypropylene Fiber

Cite This Paper in IEEE or APA Citation Styles
(a). IEEE Format:
[1] Melissa A. Pungtilan , Gilford B. Estores , "Optimization of Reinforced Concrete for Cold Storage Facilities: An Experimental Analysis of the Influence of Polypropylene Fibers on Slabs under Low Temperature," Civil Engineering and Architecture, Vol. 13, No. 3A, pp. 2657 - 2669, 2025. DOI: 10.13189/cea.2025.131333.

(b). APA Format:
Melissa A. Pungtilan , Gilford B. Estores (2025). Optimization of Reinforced Concrete for Cold Storage Facilities: An Experimental Analysis of the Influence of Polypropylene Fibers on Slabs under Low Temperature. Civil Engineering and Architecture, 13(3A), 2657 - 2669. DOI: 10.13189/cea.2025.131333.