Many concerns have been raised about the adverse environmental impacts of conventional concrete. Using natural sponge fibre (NSF) in concrete to improve mechanical and durability properties makes it a sustainable innovation in construction materials. Hence, this study aims to explore the combine effects of NSF content (0.00%, 0.25%, 0.50%, 0.75%) and water-to-binder (wb) ratios (0.45, 0.50, 0.55) on the performance of natural sponge fibre reinforced concrete (NSFRC) for pavement applications. Experimentally, concrete mixtures were prepared by adding NSF and wb ratios. The impact of fibre content (Fc) and wb on the physical and mechanical properties of NSFRC was evaluated and compared with those of plain concrete (Pc). The results indicate that advancing NSF content decreases flowability, density, and compressive strength compared to the Pc. However, tensile splitting strength increases significantly enhances at 0.75% fibre and wb 0.50, improving crack resistance and toughness, as shown by the stress-strain curves and evidenced by the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) microstructure. Research indicates NSFRC serves as a sustainable pavement material suitable for engineering applications, warranting further research into its long-term field performance and standardization.

fibre content, water/binder ratios, sustainable pavement material, mechanical properties