Article: Development of robust mathematical models for sustainable polypropylene fibres reinforced geopolymer concrete Journal: International Journal of Structural Engineering (IJSTRUCTE) 2026 Vol.16 No.3 pp.318 - 345 Abstract: Sustainable alternatives to ordinary Portland cement concrete have gained significant attention due to their potential to reduce CO<SUB align="right"><SMALL>2</SMALL></SUB> emissions. Fly ash-based geopolymer concrete is a promising option; however, reliable strength prediction is essential for its wider application. This study develops mathematical models to predict the mechanical properties of polypropylene (PP) fibre-reinforced geopolymer concrete. Sixteen mixes were prepared with constant NaOH molarity (14 M) and sodium silicate-to-sodium hydroxide ratio (1.5), while varying alkaline activator-to-fly ash ratio (0.4-0.7) and PP fibre content (0-1.5%). A total of 48 cylinders and 48 prisms were tested. Linear, multi-linear, and nonlinear (power and exponential) regression analyses were performed to relate compressive strength, tensile strength, and elastic modulus to mix parameters, with one-way ANOVA used to validate the models. Results indicate that nonlinear models provide superior prediction accuracy for elastic modulus, and that AA/FA ratio and PP fibre content significantly influence mechanical performance. Inderscience Publishers - linking academia, business and industry through research

Title: Development of robust mathematical models for sustainable polypropylene fibres reinforced geopolymer concrete

Authors: Hamza Waheed; Kong Fah Tee

Addresses: Tony Gee and Partners LLP, 140 High St, Esher KT10 9QJ, UK ' Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Dhahran 31261, Saudi Arabia; Interdisciplinary Research Centre for Construction and Building Materials, KFUPM, Dhahran 31261, Saudi Arabia

Abstract: Sustainable alternatives to ordinary Portland cement concrete have gained significant attention due to their potential to reduce CO₂ emissions. Fly ash-based geopolymer concrete is a promising option; however, reliable strength prediction is essential for its wider application. This study develops mathematical models to predict the mechanical properties of polypropylene (PP) fibre-reinforced geopolymer concrete. Sixteen mixes were prepared with constant NaOH molarity (14 M) and sodium silicate-to-sodium hydroxide ratio (1.5), while varying alkaline activator-to-fly ash ratio (0.4-0.7) and PP fibre content (0-1.5%). A total of 48 cylinders and 48 prisms were tested. Linear, multi-linear, and nonlinear (power and exponential) regression analyses were performed to relate compressive strength, tensile strength, and elastic modulus to mix parameters, with one-way ANOVA used to validate the models. Results indicate that nonlinear models provide superior prediction accuracy for elastic modulus, and that AA/FA ratio and PP fibre content significantly influence mechanical performance.

Keywords: geopolymer concrete; GPC; regression analysis; polypropylene fibres; mathematical modelling; compressive strength; tensile strength; elastic modulus; nonlinear regression analysis.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSTRUCTE.2026.155426

International Journal of Structural Engineering, 2026 Vol.16 No.3, pp.318 - 345

Received: 21 Feb 2025
Accepted: 20 Jan 2026
Published online: 31 Jul 2026 *

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Title: Development of robust mathematical models for sustainable polypropylene fibres reinforced geopolymer concrete

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