Enhancement of concrete properties using banana fibers and banana leaf ash: a sustainable approach

The current study synthesizes current research on the incorporation of banana fibers and banana leaf ash (BLA) in concrete, focusing on their potential to replace conventional materials partially and enhance concrete environmental footprint. The banana leaf ash was substituted partially for cement at proportions of 5%, 10%, 15%, 20% and 25% respectively and also banana fibers were added in the concrete at proportions of 0.1%, 0.2%, 0.3%, 0.4% and 0.5% respectively. The optimised proportions of banana leaf ash and banana fiber were found out. The incorporation of BLA at an optimum percentage of 10% by weight of cement has enhanced15.5% compressive strength, 5.74% split tensile strength and reduction in rate of water absorption. The results highlighted that optimal proportions of banana fibers can significantly enhance the tensile properties of concrete, making it less prone to cracking and more durable under tensile load.