Sustainable Innovation in the Design of f'c=210 kg/cm² Concrete Reinforced with Aguaje Shell Fibre and Prawn Exoskeleton Ash: Mechanical Properties and Durability

Poma Contreras A.G.; Pizarro Avellaneda K.Y.; Barahona Maximiliano A.J.; Laurencio Luna M.I. · SSRG International Journal of Civil Engineering (2026) · DOI: 10.14445/23488352/ijce-v13i3p102

Resumen

The construction industry has a high environmental impact due to the intensive use of cement in concrete production, which leads to significant carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions. In Peru, considerable quantities of agro-industrial and aquaculture by-products, especially waste from aguaje (Mauritia flexuosa) and shrimp exoskeletons, are typically generated and not recycled, leading to various environmental complications. In this context, this study evaluates the use of these wastes as alternative materials in the production of concrete with a characteristic compressive strength of f'c = 210 kg/cm². Aguaje Shell Fibre (ASF) was incorporated at proportions ranging from 0.00% to 1.70% by volume, while Shrimp Exoskeleton Ash (PEA) was added at contents between 0.00% and 2.50% by weight of cement. The behaviour of fresh concrete was evaluated through slump, temperature, unit weight, air content, and bleeding tests. In the hardened state, compressive strength, indirect tensile strength, flexural strength, and resistance to sulphate attack were determined at curing ages of 7, 14, 28, and 50 days. The results show that the combined incorporation of ASF and PEA reduces bleeding and slightly decreases workability, while remaining within acceptable ranges for structural applications. Mechanical properties improved progressively until an optimum dosage of 1.30% ASF and 1.50% PEA was reached. At this level, compressive strength increased by approximately 31.24%, indirect tensile strength by 77.60% and flexural strength by 93.89% at 28 days compared to the reference concrete. In addition, an improvement in resistance to sulphate attack was observed. Higher dosages resulted in reduced performance due to fibre agglomeration and loss of continuity in the cement matrix. Overall, the results indicate that the combined use of aguaje shell fibre and shrimp exoskeleton ash is a viable option for producing more sustainable concrete with improved mechanical properties and durability, while promoting waste valorisation and reducing the use of conventional materials.

Instituciones: Universidad Continental