Durability Properties of High Performance Fiber Reinforced Concrete

Abstract

The term High Performance Fiber Reinforced Concrete (HPFRC) refers to a relatively new class of advanced cementitious composite materials whose mechanical and durability properties far superior than those of conventional concrete. This class of concrete has been demonstrated to facilitate solutions that address specific problems. Initial material development research on HPFRC began more than two decades ago. First structural deployments began in the late 1990s. HPFRC-class materials are defined as cementitious-based composite materials with discontinuous fiber reinforcement that exhibit compressive strength above 21.7 ksi (150 MPa), pre- and post-cracking tensile strength above 0.72 ksi (5 MPa), and enhanced durability via a discontinuous pore structure. HPFRC material has unique combination of superior properties and design flexibility with advantages such as speed of construction improved aesthetics, superior durability and impermeability against corrosion, abrasion and impact which translates to reduced maintenance and a longer life span for the structure. One of the major disadvantages in High Performance Fiber Reinforced Concrete (HPFRC) is its high ordinary Portland cement (OPC) content, which directly translates into an increase in OPC production. More OPC production results in increased emission of greenhouse gases, as well increased electrical energy consumption and concrete price. This thesis aims to find the durability properties like compressive strength, tensile strength, flexural strength and permeability (with RCPT and Sorptivity test) of HPFRC with potable water and sea water curing conditions. A comprehensive literature review is carried out for better understanding of durability properties of HPFRC .Compiled from many references representing research, development, and deployment efforts around the world, this thesis report provides a framework for gaining a deeper understanding of HPFRC.