Incorporating banana pseudo stem fibre (BPF) in enhancing the strength of concrete for precast concrete wall

There is a need for innovation in precast concrete material due to the urgent need and demands in the construction activities and to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). Several factors initiate the innovation of utilizing natural fibres in the concrete mixture, including the compromised structural performance in precast concrete which often leads to lower quality of concrete, increasing agricultural waste products which results in the increased amount of waste, and high carbon dioxide emissions due to the rising of cement production. Therefore, this study aims to utilize agricultural waste material to enhance the strength of concrete, which aligns with the SDG. The methods used for the proposed innovation involve empathizing, defining, ideating, developing the prototype, and testing and experimenting with the product. The key findings indicate that incorporating banana pseudo stem fibre (BPF) in concrete performs better than conventional concrete and other natural fibre concrete. Increasing agricultural wastes and high carbon emissions due to cement production hence leading to the incorporation of natural fibres in concrete which Is expected to overcome the issues as well as widen the level of marketability through enhanced mechanical properties, the market demand based on consumers' preferences, sustainability and environmental benefits and improved cost efficiency.