Performance Evaluation of Glass Fiber Reinforced Pervious Concrete for Urban Infrastructure

Abstract

Pervious concrete (PC) is increasingly recognized as a sustainable pavement material due to its ability to reduce stormwater runoff and improve groundwater recharge. However, its widespread application is limited by relatively low strength and poor durability. This study investigates the combined use of alkali-resistant glass fibers (ARGF) and silica fume (SF) to improve the mechanical performance of PC while maintaining its permeability. ARGF, with high zirconia content for alkali resistance, was incorporated to enhance crack resistance and tensile properties, while SF, a highly reactive pozzolanic material, was added to refine pore structure and strengthen the cementitious matrix. Experimental testing included compressive strength, split tensile strength, porosity, and permeability assessments at curing ages of 14 and 28 days. Results indicated that incorporating 1.5% ARGF by cement weight yielded a 52% increase in split tensile strength compared to the control at 28 days. The addition of SF further improved matrix density and strength without compromising PC’s open-cell structure. Observations of failure planes revealed that cracks propagated through the cement paste rather than aggregates. These findings demonstrate that the combination of ARGF and SF enhances both the durability and tensile performance of PC, enabling its broader application beyond light-load pavements. The study provides a practical approach for producing high-performance pervious concrete with improved mechanical properties, contributing to sustainable pavement design and long-term urban infrastructure resilience.