TRANSPARENT CONCRETE FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT USING OPTICAL FIBERS

Abstract

The field of construction is advancing with various types of concrete such as light weight, self- compacting and high strength concrete. But the persisting issue of light inadequacy has not been solved by any of these special concretes. This problem can be solved by using  transparent concrete which has optical fibre cables which transmit light through it. Light transmissive property of concrete is mainly due to the uniform distribution of optical fibre throughout the concrete. Since fibre is not a brittle material, it will not reduce the strength of the concrete. Transparent concrete works on the basis of Nano Optics. The principle behind the transmission of light in an optical fibre is total internal reflection. In this study, the physical appearance and structural characteristics of transparent concrete is evaluated. Transparent concrete improves the aesthetic appearance of the building and its scope can be extended to use sunlight as a light source to reduce the power consumption in the buildings during daytime for sustainable development.