Influential factor analysis of slag-based engineered cementitious composites using Taguchi robust method

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study presents experimental and analytical investigations of the mechanical properties and cracking patterns of slag-based engineered cementitious composites (S-ECCs) incorporating polyethylene fiber (PE). The Taguchi robust design (TRD) method was adopted to design the variables and systematically analyze the results. Various factors including slag, crumb rubber particles, water, and PE fiber contents were considered to evaluate the positive and negative influences on compressive strength, tensile properties, and cracking patterns of S-ECCs. In the experimental results, most of the composites showed highly ductile behavior. Amounts of crumb rubber particles and water were two prominent factors that had strong influences on the mechanical properties of S-ECCs. An analytical model based on multiple regression analysis for obtaining high-strength and high-ductility S-ECCs provided best-performing S-ECC mixture and differences between the experimental and predicted values were less than 5%.