Experimental investigation on the flexural behaviour of basalt fibre reinforced polymer rebar concrete

Abstract

This study experimentally explores the effects of applying various types of fibres to concrete mixes on the flexural behaviour of longitudinal structural members with basalt fibre reinforced polymer (BFRP) bars. The main objective is to research the viability of using new advanced fibres of basalt to enhance the concrete response. Basalt fibre and basalt fibre reinforced polymer rebar and compared with the conventional concrete and with a 40 MPa compressive strength target, eighteen beams were fabricated and tested; twelve with basalt fibre reinforced polymer rebar concrete and six with conventional concrete Basalt fibre lengths 30 mm with 15 µm and BFRP bar length of 800 mm with 8 mm diameter were taken into account. Flexural tests were done using a four-point test setup on both of the BFRP- conventional concrete (CC) beams. The test matrix would include BFRP bar reinforcing beams and conventional steel rebar for comparative purposes. Results showed that the application of basalt fibres to concrete enhanced the ductility of these beams' curvature. Due to the delay in the concrete failure in the compression zone, a significant improvement in bending ability was also reported, which supported the BFRP bars achieved a higher ultimate strength. The opening and deep formation of a crack have been effectively limited by the aggregate interlock of basalt fibres, which maintained the crack widths lower than in the 0.7 mm permissible maximum in service. Basalt fibres of 4%, 6%, and 8% were done. Compared to conventional concrete 6% basalt fibre at 28 days of the curing period, the maximum compressive strength was attained 52.38 N/mm2, tensile strength was attained 5.55 N/mm2, Flexural strength increases to 7.45 N/mm2. However, basalt fibre reinforced polymer rebar concrete was larger than conventional concrete beams.