Combined effect of GGBS and Microsilica on the performance of cement mortar reinforced with Abutilon indicum fibres

Construction sector is a major contributor to global CO₂ emissions, largely due to the production of cement, which are highly energy-intensive. In present investigation, the fresh and hardened properties of cement mortar reinforced with Abutilon indicum fibres was studied by varying the proportions of GGBS (10%, 20%, and 30%) and Microsilica (2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, and 10%). The treated fibre reinforced cement mortar blended with 10% GGBS and 5% Microsilica in partial substitution of cement was found to be the optimal combination with 12.5%, 9.1% and 18.2% increase in compressive, flexural and tensile strengths. Also, GGBS and MS demonstrate a significant interactive effect with p-value less than 0.05, contributing not only independently to the improvement of the mechanical properties but also enhancing this effect through synergistic interactions. Hence, blended cement mortar featuring Abutilon indicum fibres aids in maintaining the integrity and promoting the long-term performance of composites for sustainable construction applications.