Abstract
This study presents experimental results on the shrinkage behavior of ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC), including the shrinkage development pattern, the calculation of autogenous shrinkage strain and the steel fiber restraining effect. UHPC is found to exhibit a multi-stage shrinkage characteristic. During the first two dormant stages, shrinkage is mainly composed of thermal contraction when limited hydration reaction occurs. Rapid shrinkage development commences once hydration is accelerated, leading to pore moisture depletion and pore refinement. In the later stage, shrinkage gradually levels off due to the decreasing hydration reactivity and the stiffening matrix. Autogenous shrinkage is separated by the removal of thermal strain based on the knowledge of coefficient of thermal deformation (CTD). This leads to the appearance of a transient swelling segment which may be attributed to the formation of Ca(OH)2 and ettringite crystals generating expansive stresses. Addition of steel fibers is found to reduce the shrinkage strain significantly. Its shrinkage restraining effect is a result of the matrix-fiber interfacing bonding and is numerically characterized by a mathematical model with the volume fraction and geometrical features of steel fibers as the major variables.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
