Effect of Distribution and Orientation of Fibers on the Post-cracking Behavior of Steel Fiber Reinforced Self-compacting Concrete in Small Thickness Elements

Abstract

In this work, an experimental investigation focused on the distribution and orientation of fibers on the post-cracking behavior of Steel Fiber Reinforced Self-Compacting Concrete (SFRSCC) to cast structural small thickness elements was assessed. To achieve this purpose, two SFRSCC panels with 45 and 60 mm of thickness were cast from their center point. From each panel, cylindrical specimens were extracted and notched either parallel or perpendicular to the SFRSCC flow direction. The post-cracking behavior was determined by means of the Modified Splitting Tensile Test. The fiber distribution was evaluated by counting the number of effective fibers crossing the fractured surfaces. Moreover, the orientation of the fiber was verified using X-ray method. Notched specimens loaded in the parallel direction of the SFRSCC flux lines presented higher post-cracking strength when compared with notched specimens loaded in the perpendicular direction. Likewise, it was also determined that smaller thickness of the structural element, represents greater residual stresses and energy absorption, in consequence of the wall effect.