Strength and fracture energy characteristics of self-consolidating concrete incorporating polyvinyl alcohol, steel and hybrid fibres

K.M.A. Hossain*, M. Lachemi, M. Sammour, M. Sonebi

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

89 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Fibre-reinforced self-consolidating concrete (FRSCC) combines the advantages of self-consolidating concrete (SCC) and fibre-reinforced concrete (FRC). In this study, 18 concrete mixtures were developed by incorporating different volumes of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and metallic fibres to a maximum of 0.3% by volume. Fresh, mechanical and durability (in terms of chloride penetration resistance) properties of all FRSCC mixtures were evaluated. The influence of fibre type/size/dosage and combination (used in hybrid mixes) on fresh properties (slump flow, L-box passing ability, V-funnel flow time and segregation index) and hardened properties (fracture energy and compressive/flexural/splitting tensile strength) were critically analyzed to study the performance of the FRSCC mixtures. The fibres – metallic ones in particular – were more effective in increasing the fracture energy of FRSCC than in increasing its compressive/splitting tensile/flexural strength. A substantial fracture energy gain of about 507% was observed compared to a 10% increase in compressive strength, a 39% gain in splitting tensile strength and a 124% increase in flexural strength. The improved strength and fracture energy of such FRSCC mixtures can significantly reduce the amount of tensile reinforcement required and substantially increase the energy-absorbing capacity of concrete structures.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)20-29
JournalConstruction and Building Materials
Volume45
Early online date25 Apr 2013
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Aug 2013

Keywords

  • Fibre reinforced self-consolidating concrete; Fresh/strength properties; Fracture energy

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Civil and Structural Engineering
  • Building and Construction
  • General Materials Science

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