Design and Fabrication of Rectangular Pavement Blocks with Embedded Light-Transmitting Optical Fiber Strands
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This study determines the structural and optical performance of rectangular pavement blocks integrated with lighttransmitting optical fibers. The objective is to create innovative pavement blocks and identify their best applications based on their properties. The experimental research evaluates two configurations: 1.0 mm diameter fibers at 0.1% volume and 2.0 mm diameter fibers at 0.4% volume. The pavement blocks were tested for mechanical and physical properties including compressive strength, flexural strength, and water absorption—after a 28-day curing period, as well as light transmittance for sunlight and LED light. Structural testing revealed that smaller fiber diameters yield superior mechanical properties, with the 1.0 mm specimens achieving a compressive strength of 119.991 N/mm² and a flexural strength of 3.467 N/mm², showing significant potential as construction materials for the industry. The optical performance of the 2.0 mm fibers demonstrated maximum efficiency, achieving a peak transmission of 0.072% at midday, which doubles the output of the 1.0 mm variety. Under artificial LED lighting, low-light environments enhanced visual utility by increasing luminance contrast. The 1.0 mm block is commercially viable for residential driveways and walkways due to its selling price and high strength. The 2.0 mm block serves as a high-value solution for specialized architectural installations, interactive displays, and museums, where superior light transmittance and durability are required.
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