Exploring the influence of strain rate on BTRM tensile behaviour

Extensive research has been conducted on textile-reinforced mortars (TRM); however, a significant gap exists in understanding how strain rate influences mechanical performance. TRM composites reinforced with basalt textiles (BTRM) have become increasingly popular due to the remarkable sustainable profile of basalt fibres. However, there is limited knowledge regarding the tensile response of this composite under intermediate strain rates. The present study examined a BTRM composite consisting of a bi-directional basalt fibre textile and a commercially available mortar strengthened with short glass fibres. Coupon specimens with aluminium tabs were tested with a high-speed servohydraulic equipment at strain rates ranging from 0.5/s to 10/s. Strain and failure propagation were captured with a high-speed camera and analysed using the digital image correlation (DIC) technique. Tests were also performed under quasi-static conditions for comparison. The mechanical characteristics of the BTRM composite were assessed based on its tensile strength, ultimate strain, toughness, stress-strain behaviour, and failure mode. The findings demonstrated that the BTRM composite exhibited sensitivity to changes in strain rate. Increasing strain rates enhanced tensile strength, ultimate strain, and toughness. Furthermore, the specimens examined under dynamic conditions displayed distinct stress-strain characteristics compared to similar specimens subjected to quasi-static loadings.