Mechanical Analysis of Fly Ash-Based Light Transmitting Concrete by using Optical Fiber

Fly ash-based light-transmitting concrete (FLTC) is an innovative and energy-efficient construction material known for its superior characteristics. FLTC is a high-quality translucent concrete that offers excellent mechanical properties, and effective light transmission. This research study aimed to evaluate the performance of FLTC by incorporating plastic optical fibers (POF) and replacing a portion of the cement with fly ash. The investigation focused on assessing the mechanical properties and light transmittance capabilities of FLTC. Seven different concrete mixes of M20 grade were prepared, varying the volume of POF from 0.5% to 4% and replacing 25% of the cement with fly ash. After 28 days of curing, tests were conducted to measure compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, and light transmittance. The mechanical properties of FLTC demonstrated improvement with increasing POF volume ratios, while the light transmittance notably increased with higher POF volume ratios. FLTC achieved a remarkable light transmittance of up to 5.48% for specimens containing 4% POF volume ratio and 0.75 mm POF diameter, while still maintaining good mechanical properties. Additionally, FLTC exhibited an increase in compressive strength by 27.3 MPa, a tensile strength increases of 17.8%, and an upv value (ultrasonic pulse velocity) of 3.41 km/s.