Integrating push-out test validation and fuzzy logic for bond strength study of fiber-reinforced self-compacting concrete

Abstract

This study offers a comprehensive analysis of Fiber-Reinforced Self-Compacting Concrete (FRSCC) with a focus on shear bond strength influenced by specific compositions of microsilica, zeolite, slag, and polypropylene fibers. Twenty distinct FRSCC mixes underwent extensive testing, including 28-day compressive strength, tensile strength assessments, and push-out and slant shear tests. A significant outcome is the strong correlation between the push-out and slant shear test results, exemplified by an R² value of 0.88, confirming the push-out test as a viable and practical alternative for bond strength assessment. Experimentally, fibers were found to enhance tensile strength, with the inclusion of 15% microsilica and slag further amplifying this effect, highlighting the critical role of precise pozzolan selection in achieving optimal mechanical performance and workability in FRSCC. Furthermore, the study introduces a fuzzy logic system for predicting shear bond strength, achieving high predictive accuracy with R² values reaching up to 0.96, depending on the t-norms utilized. This research not only validates the push-out test as a reliable method for evaluating shear bond strength in FRSCC but also demonstrates the efficacy of the fuzzy logic approach, representing a groundbreaking contribution in both computational analysis and practical methodology for concrete structural integrity.