Abstract

This study investigates the performance of Polypropylene fiber as reinforcement in a concrete matrix for the application of storage of radioactive nuclear waste. Concrete hollow vessels of M50 grade were prepared as a model of a storage tank for nuclear wastes. Various percentages of Polypropylene fibers (0.1%, 0.15%, 0.2%, by weight of concrete) have been taken into account to find out its effect on the permeability and shrinkage properties of concrete. Certain percentages of cementitious material were replaced by silica fumes in order to increase the resistivity of concrete cylinders. Homogeneity and resistivity of the concrete vessels were tested by the Ultrasonic Pulse Velocity test and the Four Probe Analyser test respectively. The test results have substantiated that the polypropylene fiber reinforced concrete vessels are suitable for holding radioactive waste. The test results have also verified that the reduction in the compressive strength of the concrete due to polypropylene fiber is negligible.

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