Valorization of treated bamboo fiber in the mechanical strength and durability of concrete

This study aims to evaluate the behavior of concrete reinforced with treated bamboo fiber (TBF) under sulfate exposure, determining its optimal dosage (0.5–2% by cement weight) to enhance mechanical properties and durability without altering the water/cement ratio. The methodology integrates advanced statistical analyses (ANOVA/Tukey) and a cost–benefit assessment. The fibers were cut to a length of 20 mm with an approximate diameter of 2 mm. Results showed that workability and density decreased as TBF content increased, while air content rose. After 28 days of curing, the optimal dosage of 1.5% TBF significantly improved mechanical properties, with increases of: 20.61% in compressive strength, 9.81% in modulus of elasticity, 34.51% in flexural strength, and 31.20% in tensile strength. However, higher dosages (2% TBF) reduced mechanical performance—though not below control concrete levels. Regarding durability at 56 days, mass loss due to sodium sulfate (Na₂SO₄) exposure increased by up to 72.71% with 2% TBF, yet all values remained within acceptable limits (< 12%). This suggests that in high-salt or severe weathering environments, excessive TBF may compromise durability. Statistical analysis (ANOVA and Tukey tests, p < 0.05) confirmed significant differences in all properties. The cost–benefit analysis revealed that 1.5% TBF is economically viable, costing S/400.42 Peruvian soles per m³ while delivering a 31.20% tensile strength improvement. These findings demonstrate TBF’s potential as a sustainable reinforcement for structural and non-structural concrete, provided dosages are optimized and environmental conditions are accounted for.