Study and data-driven modeling of flexural behaviors of ultra-high-performance concrete reinforced by milling steel fiber

Abstract

This study leveraged milling steel fibers to enhance the flexural capacity of ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC). We assessed UHPC's flexural performance, measuring compressive strength and flowability, considering three fiber types: milling, straight, and a hybrid. UHPC with milling fibers displayed superior compressive strength and flowability compared to straight fiber. Milling fibers consistently enhanced UHPC’s flexural capacity by over 120%, with a flowability reduction below 15%. Hybrid fiber demonstrated a balanced and commendable performance. Data-driven and theoretical flexural models were developed for UHPC with both fibers. the Gaussian process regression data-driven model outperformed the other 18 models, with an error below 3.5%.