Evaluation and Strength Estimation of Glass Fibre Reinforced Lightweight Aggregate Concrete

ABSTRACT Lightweight Aggregate Concrete (LWAC) has emerged as a sustainable alternative to conventional concrete due to its reduced density and improved thermal performance. However, its relatively lower tensile strength and brittle behavior restrict its structural applications. The present study investigates the strength performance and structural efficiency of Glass Fibre Reinforced Lightweight Aggregate Concrete (GFRLWC). Lightweight aggregates were incorporated as partial replacement of conventional coarse aggregates to reduce the density of concrete. Glass fibres were added in controlled proportions to enhance tensile and flexural performance. An experimental program was conducted to evaluate workability, density, compressive strength, split tensile strength, and flexural strength at 7 and 28 days of curing. The results demonstrate that glass fibre addition significantly improves tensile and flexural strength due to crack-bridging action and improved stress transfer within the matrix. Although a slight reduction in workability was observed, the values remained within permissible construction limits. The density reduction confirms the lightweight nature of the developed concrete. Overall, GFRLWC shows balanced mechanical performance and structural suitability for modern sustainable construction practices. Keywords: Lightweight Aggregate Concrete, Glass Fibre, Fibre Reinforcement, Compressive Strength, Flexural Strength, Density Reduction.