Assessment of concrete reinforced with low content of fibres for structural purposes according to standard EN 14651-2007

ABSTRACT

There is a broad range of tests available for evaluating the mechanical behavior of fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC). The one proposed by the standard EN 14651-2007 is one of the most promising. This is due to the fact that this test method was chosen as reference in the new fib Model Code for structural design using the FRC. Since there is no standard published in Brazil regarding that kind of test, there is a need of use this test method in the evaluation of CRF. In that sense, an experimental program was carried out aiming to proceed a mix-design analysis of FRC and verify if concretes reinforced with low content of synthetic macrofibers and steel fibers could be in conformity to requirements for structural application according to the fib Model Code. Tests were performed using notched prismatic specimens, in which the formation of the crack is more stable. Three types of fiber have been evaluated, two of them were composed of polypropylene, used in the dosages of 3.0, 4.5 and 6.0kg/m³ (0.33, 0.50 and 0.66 in volume percentage) and the third one was composed of steel, used in the dosages of 15, 25 and 35kg/m³(0.19, 0.32 and 0.45 in volume percentage) in one concrete matrix of 35MPa of compressive strength. Great stability and reproducible results were achieved. It has been proven that it is possible to dose the fibers in order to meet different levels of requirements established in thefib. Model Code for FRC designated to structural purposes when considering mean values of test results. This situation can not be repeated when the characteristic results are considered in the analysis.

Keywords:
fiber-reinforced concrete; concrete structures; test method; residual strength