Effect of steel fiber volume fraction and aspect ratio type on the mechanical properties of SIFCON-based HPFRCC

Abstract

Plain concrete is a brittle material with a very low tensile strength compared to compressive strength and critical tensile strain. This study analyzed the dynamic characteristics of high-performance fiber-reinforced cementitious composites based on slurry-infiltrated fiber concrete (SIFCON-based HPFRCC), which maximizes the steel–fiber volume fraction and uses high-strength mortar to increase resistance to loads, such as explosion and impact, with a very short acting time. For major experimental variables, three levels of fiber aspect ratio and five levels of fiber volume fraction between 6.0% and 8.0% were considered, and the flexural strength and toughness characteristics were analyzed according to these variables. Furthermore, three levels of the aspect ratio of used steel fibers were considered. The highest flexural strength of 65.0 MPa was shown at the fiber aspect ratio of 80 and the fiber volume fraction of 7.0%, and the flexural strength and toughness increased proportionally to the fiber volume fraction. The test results according to fiber aspect ratio and fiber volume fraction revealed that after the initial crack, the load of the SIFCON-based HPFRCC continuously increased because of the high fiber volume fraction. In addition, sufficient residual strength was achieved after the maximum strength; this achievement will bring about positive effects on the brittle fracture of structures when an unexpected load, such as explosion or impact, is applied.