Seminar Report

On
STEEL FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE
(Submitted in partial fulfillment for the award of the degree of Bachelor of
Technology in Civil Engineering, Rajasthan Technical University Kota)

Dr. P.K. AGARWAL

SHOBHA MEENA
CRN - 11/361
Enrolment No.11EUCCE106

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING

RAJASTHAN TECHNICAL UNIVERSITY KOTA
MARCH 2015

Department of Civil Engineering

University College of Engineering Rajasthan

Technical University, Kota-324010
Dated:

CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that

Ms. Shobha meena

College Roll No. 11/361 and

University Roll No. 11eucce106 has submitted the seminar report entitled steel
fibre reinforced concrete in partial fulfillment for the award of the degree of
Bachelor of Technology (Civil Engineering). The report has been prepared as per
the prescribed format and is approved for submission and presentation.

Counter signature of Head

Signature of Guide

Dr. H.D. CHARAN

Professor& Head
Dept. of Civil Engg.
UCE, RTU, Kota-324010

Dr. P.K.AGARWAL
Associate professor
Dept. of Civil Engg
UCE, RTU, Kota-324010

ii

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I express my sincere thanks to my seminar guide Dr. P.K. AGARWAL (Associate

Prof.) for guiding me right from the inception till the successful completion of
the seminar. I sincerely acknowledge him for extending their valuable guidance,
support for literature, critical reviews of seminar & the report & above all the
mortal support.
I would like to convey my thanks to seminar coordinators (Prof. B. P. Suneja,
K.S. Grover and Mr. S.K. Nagar) and HOD (Prof. H.D. Charan ) giving me the
opportunity to embark upon this topic.
Finally, I am thankful to my parents & friends for their continued moral support
& helping me finalize the presentation.

Date-

SHOBHA MEENA
C.R. No. 11/361
Final B. Tech. (Civil)

iii

CONTENTS

ABSTRACT
1. INTRODUCTION

1-2

1.1. GENERAL

1.2. FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE

1.3. HISTORY

2. FIBRE REINFORCED MECHANISM & PROPERTIES

3-7

2.1. PROPERTIES OF FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE

2.2. FIBRE MECHANISM

2.2.1. Method1

2.2.2. Method2

2.3. WORKABILITY

3. STEEL FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE

8-11

3.1. STEEL FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE (SFRC)

3.2. COMPOSITION OF STEEL FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE

3.3. STEEL FIBRES

3.4. TECHNOLOGY FOR PRODUCING SFRC

10

4. BEHAVIOUR OF STEEL FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE UNDER

12-19

CONVENTIONAL LOADINGS
4.1. BEHAVIOUR OF STEEL FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE UNDER DIRECT
COMPRESSION

12

4.1.1. FOR PLAIN CONCRETE

12

4.1.2. FOR STEEL FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE

14

4.2. BEHAVIOUR OF STEEL FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE UNDER FLEXURE 15

4.2.1. FACTORS AFFECTING THE FLEXURE BEHAVIOUR OF STEEL FIBRE

16

REINFORCED CONCRETE
4.1.2. FLEXURAL BEHAVIOUR OF STEEL FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE

iv

17

5. REVIEW OF LITERATURE

20-26

5.1. PREVIOUS PREPARATION, PROPERTIES AND MIX DESIGN OF FIBRE

REINFORCED CONCRETE

20

5.2. FLEXURAL BEHAVIOUR OF SFRC AS PER PREVIOUS STUDIES

20

5.3. PREVIOUS INVESTIGATIONS ON FLEXURAL TOUGHNESS, ENERGY

ABSORPTION, DUCTILITY AND LOAD DEFLECTION BEHAVIOUR

22

5.4. IMPACT RESISTANCE OF SFRC

23

5.5. FATIGUE

26

6. USES & APPLICATION OF SFRC

27-32

6.1. STRUCTURAL USE OF SFRC

27

6.2. APLLICATIONS OF SFRC

29

6.2.1. USE OF SFRC

29

6.3. BENEFITS OF SFRC

30

6.4. MAJOR STUCTURES OF SFRC ALL OVER THE WORLD

32

REFRENCE

33

LIST OF FIGURES
FIG. NO.

TITLE

PAGE

Fig. 1.1

STEEL FIBRE

Fig. 2.1

FIBRE MECHANISM

Fig. 2.2

PULL OUT MECHANISM

Fig. 3.1

COMPONENTS OF STEEL FIBRE REINFORCED

CONCRETE

Fig. 3.2

DIFFERENT TYPES OF FIBRES

Fig. 3.3

DARMIX FIBRE

10

Fig. 4.1

STRESS & STRAIN CURVE

12

Fig. 4.2

SCHEMATIC REPRESENTATION OF BEHAVIOUR

OF CONCRETE

13

Fig. 4.3

COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF SFRC

14

Fig. 4.4

.LOAD V/S DEFLECTION CURVE

16

Fig. 4.5

LOAD DEFLECTION CURVE OF SFRC SPECIMEN

17

Fig. 4.6

TYPICAL LOAD DEFLECTION CURVE OF SFRC

BEAM WITH LOW VOLUME FRACTION OF FIBRES

18

Fig. 6.1

EXPERIMENTAL MOMENT V/S DEFLECTION

CURVE OF SFRC

28

Fig. 6.2

KRCL-MSRC TUNNELS

30

Fig. 6.3

STEEL FIBRE IN CONCRETE

30

Fig. 6.4

MAJOR STRUCTURES

32-33

vi

ABSTRACT

It is now well established that one of the important properties of steel fibre reinforced concrete
(SFRC) is its superior resistance to cracking and crack propagation. As a result of this ability
to arrest cracks, fibre composites possess increased extensibility and tensile strength, both at
first crack and at ultimate, particular under flexural loading; and the fibres are able to hold the
matrix together even after extensive cracking. The net result of all these is to impart to the fibre
composite pronounced post cracking ductility which is unheard of in ordinary concrete. The
transformation from a brittle to a ductile type of material would increase substantially the
energy absorption characteristics of the fibre composite and its ability to withstand repeatedly
applied, shock or impact loading.
In this seminar, the mechanic properties, technologies, and applications of SFRC are
discussed.

vii

CHAPTER-1
INTRODUCTION

1.1 GENERAL
Concrete is a composite material containing hydraulic cement, water, coarse aggregate and fine
aggregate. The resulting material is a stone like structure which is formed by the chemical
reaction of the cement and water. This stone like material is a brittle material which is strong
in compression but very weak in tension. This weakness in the concrete makes it to crack under
small loads, at the tensile end. These cracks gradually propagate to the compression end of the
member and finally, the member breaks. The formation of cracks in the concrete may also
occur due to the drying shrinkage. These cracks are basically micro cracks. These cracks
increase in size and magnitude as the time elapses and the finally makes the concrete to fail.
The formation of cracks is the main reason for the failure of the concrete. To increase the tensile
strength of concrete many attempts have been made. One of the successful and most commonly
used method is providing steel reinforcement. Steel bars, however, reinforce concrete against
local tension only. Cracks in reinforced concrete members extend freely until encountering are
bar. Thus need for multidirectional and closely spaced steel reinforcement arises. That cannot
be practically possible. Fiber reinforcement gives the solution for this problem
So to increase the tensile strength of concrete a technique of introduction of fibers in concrete
is being used. These fibers act as crack arrestors and prevent the propagation of the cracks.
These fibers are uniformly distributed and randomly arranged. This concrete is named as fiber
reinforced concrete.
The main reasons for adding fibers to concrete matrix is to improve the post cracking response
of the concrete, i.e., to improve its energy absorption capacity and apparent ductility, and to
provide crack resistance and crack control. Also, it helps to maintain structural integrity and
cohesiveness in the material. The initial researches combined with the large volume of follow
up research have led to the development of a wide variety of material formulations that fit the
definition of Fiber Reinforced Concrete.

FIGURE 1.1: Steel Fibre

1.2 FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE
Fiber reinforced concrete (FRC) is concrete containing fibrous material which increases its
structural integrity. So we can define fiber reinforced concrete as a composite material of
cement concrete or mortar and discontinuous discrete and uniformly dispersed fiber.
Fiber is discrete material having some characteristic properties. The fiber material can be
anything. But not all will be effective and economical. Some fibers that are most commonly
used are:

Steel
Glass
Carbon
Natural
NBD
Steel fiber is one of the most commonly used fiber. Generally round fibers are used. The
diameter may vary from 0.25 to 0.75mm.The steel fiber sometimes gets rusted and lose its
strength. But investigations have proved that fibers get rusted only at surfaces. It has high
modulus of elasticity. Use of steel fibers makes significant improvements in flexure, impact
and fatigue strength of concrete. It has been used in various types of structures.

Glass fiber is a recently introduced fiber in making fiber concrete. It has very high tensile
strength of 1020 to 4080Mpa. Glass fiber concretes are mainly used in exterior building faade
panels and as architectural precast concrete. This material is very good in making shapes on
the front of any building and it is less dense than steel.
Use of carbon fiber is not a developed process. But it has considerable strength and youngs
modulus. Also investigations have shown that use of carbon makes the concrete very durable.
The study on the carbon fibers is limited. Mainly used for cladding purpose.
Natural fibers are low cost and abundant. They are nonhazardous and renewable. Some of the
natural fibers are bamboo, jute, coconut husk, elephant grass. They can be used in place of
asbestos. It increases toughness and flexural strength. It also induces good durability in
concrete.
Disposal of non-biodegradable materials is a serious problem. It creates environmental
problems. Reusing is the best option to reduce the waste. These NBD materials are noncorrosive, resistant to chemical attack, light in weight, easy to handle. NBD materials fiber
plastic, jute plastic, polythene, disposal glass, cement bags.
Studies conducted so far, proved that the short and discrete, small fibers can improve the
flexural load carrying capacities and impact resistance for non-ferrous fibers.
1.3 HISTORY
The use of fibers to increase the structural properties of construction material is not a new
process. From ancient times fibers were being used in construction. In BC, horse hair was used
to reinforce mortar. Egyptians used straw in mud bricks to provide additional strength.
Asbestos was used in the concrete in the early 19th century, to protect it from formation of
cracks. But in the late 19th century, due to increased structural importance, introduction of steel
reinforcement in concrete was made, by which the concept of fiber reinforced concrete was
over looked for 5-6 decades. Later in 1939 the introduction steel replacing asbestos was made
for the first time. But at that period it was not successful. From 1960, there was a tremendous
development in the FRC, mainly by the introduction of steel fibers. Since then use of different
types of fibers in concrete was made. In 1970s principles were developed on the working of
the fiber reinforced concrete. Later in 1980s certified process was developed for the use of
FRC. In the last decades, codes regarding the FRC are being developed.

CHAPTER-2
FIBRE REINFORCED MECHANISM & PROPERTIES

2.1 PROPERTIES OF FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE

Properties of concrete is affected by many factors like properties of cement, fine aggregate,
coarse aggregate. Other than this, the fiber reinforced concrete is affected by following factors:

Type of fiber

Aspect ratio

Quantity of fiber

Orientation of fiber

Type of fibre:
A good fiber is the one which possess the following qualities:

Good adhesion within the matrix.

adaptable elasticity modulus (sometimes higher than that of the matrix)

compatibility with the binder, which should not be attacked or destroyed in the long term

an accessible price, taking into account the proportion within the mix

being sufficiently short, fine and flexible to permit mixing, transporting and placing

Being sufficiently strong, yet adequately robust to withstand the mixing process.

Aspect ratio:
Aspect ratio is defined as the ratio of length to width of the fiber. The value of aspect ratio
varies from 30 to 150. Generally the increase in aspect ratio increases the strength and
toughness till the aspect ratio of 100. Above that the strength of concrete decreases, in view of
decreased workability and reduced compaction. From investigations it can be found out that
good results are obtained at an aspect ratio around 80 for steel fibers. Keeping that in view we
have considered steel hooked end fibers with aspect ratio of 80 (Length 60 mm and Diameter
0.75 mm).

Fibre quantity
Generally quantity of fibers is measured as percentage of cement content. As the volume of
fibers increase, there should be increase in strength and toughness of concrete. Regarding our
fiber, we hope that there will be an increase in strength, with increase in fiber content. We are
going to test for percentages of 1.0, 2.0 and 3.0.
Orientation of fibre
The orientations of fibers play a key role in determining the capacity of concrete. In RCC the
reinforcements are placed in desired direction. But in FRC, the fibers will be oriented in random
direction. The FRC will have maximum resistance when fibers are oriented parallel to the load
applied.
2.2 FIBRE MECHANISM
Fiber work with concrete utilizing two mechanisms: the spacing mechanism and the crack
bridging mechanism. The spacing mechanism requires a large number of fibers well distributed
within the concrete matrix to arrest any existing micro crack that could potentially expand
create a sound crack. For typical volume of fractions of fibers utilizing small diameter of fibers
or micro fibers can ensure the required no of fibers for micro crack arrest.
The second mechanism termed crack bridging requires larger straight fibers with adequate
bond to concrete. Steel fibers are considered a prime example of this fiber type that is
commonly referred as large diameter fibers or micro fibers.

FIGURE 2.1: Fibre Mechanism

5

2.2.1 Fibre Matrix Interaction:

The tensile cracking strain of cement matrix is much lower than the yield or ultimate strain of
fibers. As a result when a fiber reinforced composite is loaded the matrix will crack long before
the fibers can be fractured. Once the matrix is cracked composite continues to carry increasing
tensile stress. The peak stress and strain of the concrete composite are greater than those of the
matrix alone during the inelastic range between first cracking and the peak.
Multiple cracking of matrix occurs as indicated in fig 2.1
2.2.2 Bridging Action:
Pullout resistance of fibers (dowel action) is important for efficiency. Pullout strength of fibers
significantly improves the post-cracking tensile strength of concrete. As an FRC beam or other
structural element is loaded, fibers bridge the cracks. Such bridging action provides the FRC
specimen with greater ultimate tensile strength and, more importantly, larger toughness and
better energy absorption.
An important benefit of this fiber behavior is material damage tolerance. Bayasi and Kaiser
(2001) performed a study where damage tolerance factor is defined as the ratio of flexural
resistance at 2-mm maximum crack width to ultimate flexural capacity. At 2% steel fiber
volume, damage tolerance factor according to Bayasi and Kaiser was determined as 93%. .

FIGURE 2.2: Pull-out Mechanism

2.3 WORKABILITY
A shortcoming of using fibers in concrete is reduction in workability. Workability of FRC is
affected by fiber aspect ratio and volume fraction as well the workability of plain concrete.
As fiber content increases, workability decreases. Most researchers limit volume of fibers to
4.0% and aspect ratio to 100 to avoid unworkable mixes. In addition, some researchers have
limited the fiber reinforcement index [volume of fibers as % aspect ratio] to 1.5 for the same
reason. To overcome the workability problems associated with FRC, modification of concrete
mix design is recommended. Such modifications can include the use of additives.

CHAPTER-3
STEEL FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE

3.1 STEEL FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE

According to Exodus Egyptians used straw to reinforce mud bricks. There is evidence that
asbestos fiber was used to reinforce clay posts about 5000 years ago. Prof. Alberto Fava of the
University of La Plata in Argentina points out that the hornero is a tiny bird native to Argentina,
Chile, Bolivia and other South American countries; the bird had been painstakingly building
straw reinforced clay nests on tree tops since the advent of man. However, N.V.Bekaert is been
regarded as the father of "Fiber Reinforced Concrete".
3.2 COMPOSITION OF STEEL FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE
The components of Steel Fiber Reinforced Concrete (SFRC) can be explained with the help of

FIGURE 3.1: Components of Steel Fiber Reinforced Concrete

The Figure 3.1 Concrete containing hydraulic cement, water, fine aggregate, coarse aggregate
and discontinuous discrete Steel fibers is called Steel Fiber Reinforced Concrete. It may also
contain pozzolans and other admixtures commonly used with conventional concrete.
Fibers of various shapes and sizes produced from steel, plastic, glass and natural materials are
being used. However, for most structural and non-structural purposes, steel fiber is commonly
used of all the fibers.
3.3 STEEL FIBRES
This research focuses on steel fibers. Steel fiber length ranges from 1/4 to 3 inches (1.5 to 75
mm) and aspect ratio ranges from 30 to 100. Fiber shapes are illustrated below.

Straight

Crimped

Hooked End

Paddled

Deformed

Irregular
FIGURE 3.2: Different shapes of Steel Fibres

The Steel Fibers that we are using in this project work are Hooked Fibers that are glued to
each other and named `Dramix', manufactured by Bekaert Limited, Belgium.
9

FIGURE 3.3: Dramix fibre

3.4 TECHNOLOGY FOR PRODUCING SFRC
SFRC can, in general, be produced using conventional concrete practice, though there are
obviously some important differences. The basic problem is to introduce a sufficient volume
of uniformly dispersed to achieve the desired improvements in mechanical behaviour, while
retaining sufficient workability in the fresh mix to permit proper mixing, placing and finishing.
The performance of the hardened concrete is enhanced more by fibres with a higher aspect
ratio, since this improves the fibre-matrix bond. On the other hand, a high aspect ratio adversely
affects the workability of the fresh mix. In general, the problems of both workability and
uniform distribution increase with increasing fibre length and volume. One of the chief
difficulties in obtaining a uniform fibre distribution is the tendency for steel fibres to ball or
clump together. Clumping may be caused by a number of factors
1. The fibres may already be clumped together before they are added to the mix; normal
mixing action will not break down these clumps.
2. 2. Fibres may be added too quickly to allow them to disperse in the mixer.
3. Too high a volume of fibres may be added.
4. The mixer itself may be too worn or inefficient to disperse the fibres.
5. Introducing the fibres to the mixer before the other concrete ingredients will cause them
to clump together.
In view of this, care must be taken in the mixing procedures. Most commonly, when using a
transit mix truck or revolving drum mixer, the fibres should be added last to the wet concrete.
The concrete alone, typically, should have a slump of 50-75 mm greater than the desired

10

slump of the SFRC. Of course, the fibres should be added free of clumps, usually by first
passing them through an appropriate screen. Once the fibres are all in the mixer, about 30-40
revolutions at mixing speed should properly disperse the fibres. Alternatively, the fibres may
be added to the fine aggregate on a conveyor belt during the addition of aggregate to the
concrete mix. The use of collated fibres held together by a water-soluble sizing which
dissolves during mixing largely eliminates the problem of clumping.

11

CHAPTER-4
BEHAVIOUR OF STEEL FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE UNDER
CONVENTIONAL LOADINGS

4.1 BEHAVIOUR OF STEEL FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE UNDER DIRECT

COMPRESSION
Maximum stress a material can sustain under crush loading is known as Compressive strength.
The compressive strength of a material that fails by shattering fracture can be defined within
fairly narrow limits as an independent property. However, the compressive strength of
materials that do not shatter in compression must be defined as the amount of stress required
to distort the material an arbitrary amount. Compressive strength is calculated by dividing the
maximum load by the original cross-sectional area of a specimen compression test.
4.1.1 For Plain Concrete
The stress strain curve of concrete under uniaxial compression shows a linear behavior up to
about 30% of the ultimate strength (Fu) because under short term loading the micro cracks in
the transition zone remain undisturbed. For stresses above this point, the curve shows a gradual
increase in curvature up to about 0.75 Fu to 0.9 Fu, then it bends sharply almost becoming flat
at the top and finally descends until the specimen is fractured.

FIGURE 4.1: Relation between Concrete Performance and Extent of Cracking

12

From the shape of the stress strain curve it seems that, for a stress between 30 to 50% of Fu the
micro-cracks in the transition zone show some extension due to stress concentration to the tips
however, no cracking occurs in the mortar matrix. Until this point crack propagation is assumed
to be stable in the sense that crack lengths rapidly reach their final values it the applied stress
is held constant. For a stress between 50 to 75% of Fu increasingly the crack system tends to
be unstable as the transition zone crack begins When the available internal energy exceeds the
required crack release energy, the rate of crack propagation will increase and the system
becomes above 75% of Fu when complete fracture of the test specimen can occur by bridging
of mortar and transition zone cracks.
Based on the described cracking stages, the behavior of concrete can be viewed at two levels:
First, randomly distributed micro cracks are formed or enlarged under low level of stresses.
When tile stress level reaches a specific value, these micro-cracks begin to localize (strain
localization) and to coalesce into a macro-crack. This macro crack will agate until the stress
reaches its critical stage. Steady state propagation of this macro-crack will result in the strain
softening mechanism observed for concrete. This general view of cracking of concrete makes
it clear that the first linear elastic portion of loading up to strain localization cannot be described
by fracture mechanics but can be quantified using damage mechanics [Krajcinovic 1984].

FIGURE 4.2: Schematic Representation of Behavior of Concrete

13

4.1.2. FOR STEEL FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE

Compressive strength is little influenced by steel fiber addition. High compressive this can be
achieved using silica fume or fly ash. However, the use of steel fibers the mode of failure of
high strength concrete from an explosive brittle one to a more ductile one, again showing the
increased toughness of SFRC and its ability to absorb energy under dynamic loading.

FIGURE 4.3: Compressive Strength of SFRC

The fiber type, volume fraction and aspect ratio play important roles in determining the
compressive ductility and energy absorption capacity of fiber reinforced concrete. The material
behavior is generally enhanced as the volume fraction and aspect ratio of fibers increase up to
limits after which the problems with fresh mix workability and fiber dispersibility start to
damage the hardened material properties. As the increases in both fiber volume fraction Vr and
aspect ratio 1/d lead to improvement of the same nature in the compressive behavior of the
material, their combined effect has been generally analyzed using the Fiber Reinforcing Index
Vr1/d. in general. The higher the fiber reinforcing index, the higher is ductility and energy
absorption capacity of fiber reinforced concrete. However, for high values of fiber reinforcing
index, the problems with workability and fiber dispersibility of fresh mix tend to deteriorate
the compressive behavior of the hardened material.
Due to their material properties, steel fibers do not at all influence the strength parameters of
concrete. Under compressive loading, when micro-cracking occurs because of transverse
14

tension forces, steel fibers cause crack-closing forces, on the one hand. This leads to an increase
of compressive strength. On the other hand, porosity increases when steel fibers are mixed in
with the fresh concrete. This effect decreases the compressive Strength of steel fiber reinforced
concrete. Both effects in combination have the tendency to cancel each other out.
The influence of fibers in improving the compressive strength of the matrix depends on whether
mortar or concrete (having coarse aggregates) is used and on the magnitude of compressive
strength. Otter and Naaman [1988] showed that use of steel fibers in lower strength concretes
increases their compressive strength significantly compared to plain unreinforced matrices and
is directly related to volume fraction of steel fiber used.
Ezeldin and Balaguru [1992] conducted tests to obtain the complete stress-strain of steel fiberreinforced concrete with compressive strengths ranging from 35 MPa to 84 Mpa. The matrix
consisted of concrete and three volume fibers fractions of 30 kg/m3, 45 kg/m3 and 60 kg/m3
and three aspect ratios of 60, 75 and 100 were investigated. It was reported that the addition of
hooked-end steel fibers to concrete increased marginally the compressive strength and the
strain corresponding to peak stress.
4.2 BEHAVIOUR OF STEEL FIBRE REINFORCED CONCRETE UNDER FLEXURE
In numerous investigations, it has been displayed that the flexure, shear, torsion, punching,
dynamic impact behaviors of structural elements improved by the use of Steel Fiber Reinforced
Concrete. The positive effects of SFRC on the flexure behavior of the structural elements are
given as follows by Craig (1984).

Increases moment capacity and cracking moment,

Increase the ductility,

Increases crack control,

Increases rigidity,

Preserves the structural integrity after beam exceeds the ultimate load.

15

4.2.1 Factors Affecting the Flexure Behaviour of Steel Fibre Reinforced Concrete.
1. Influence of Steel Fibre Volume Fraction

The influence of fiber volume fraction is shown in Figure. For 90 and 120 kg/m3 fiber content,
the post-crack increase in load is significant. This increase essentially provides the
improvement in flexural strength and a stable post-crack behavior. The bending capacity
increases as the fiber volume fraction increases.
2. Influence of Fibre Length

The influence of fiber length is very significant for straight fibers. However, it is an established
fact that, longer fibers with higher aspect ratios provide better performance in both strength
increase and energy absorption as long as they can be mixed, placed, compacted and finished
properly. Since hooked-end fibers provide good anchorage, an increase in aspect ratio of
hooked-end fibers has less influence compared with straight steel fibers. However, the
difference between fiber lengths becomes even less significant at higher volume fractions.
3. Influence of Fibre Geometry

Three different fiber geometry, namely hooked-end fibers, corrugated fibers and deformed-end
fibers with equal length are studied on the flexural behavior of Steel Fiber Reinforced Concrete
by Gopalaratnam et al. (1991). According to test results, concrete with hooked-end fibers have
higher tensile strength and post-crack response than the other two types. The drop after the first
peak is much more pronounced for corrugated and deformed-end fibers.

FIGURE 4.4: Comparison of effects of steel fibre shapes on load-deflection curves

16

There are a number of factors that influence the behavior and strength of SFRC in flexure. They
are fiber orientation and fiber shape, fiber bond characteristics (fiber deformation). Also,
factors that influence the workability of SFRC such as water cement ratio, density, air content
and the like could also influence its strength. The ultimate strength in flexure could vary
considerably depending upon the volume fraction of fibers, length and bond characteristics of
the fibers and the ultimate strength of the fibers. Depending upon the contribution of these
influencing factors, the ultimate strength of SFRC could be either smaller or larger than its first
cracking strength.
4.2.2

Flexural Behaviour of Steel Fibre Reinforced Concrete

Generally, there are three stages of the load-deflection response of SFRC specimens tested in
flexure. The three stages are
1. A more or less linear response up to point A. The strengthening mechanism in this portion
of the behavior involves a transfer of stress from the matrix to the fibers by interfacial
shear. The imposed stress is shared between the matrix and fibers until the matrix cracks
at what is termed as "first cracking strength" or "proportional limit".
2. A transition nonlinear portion between point A and the maximum load capacity at point B
(assuming the load at B is larger than the load at A). In this portion, and after cracking,
the stress in the matrix is progressively transferred to the fibers. With increasing load, the
fibers tend to gradually pull out from the matrix leading to a nonlinear load-deflection
response until the ultimate flexural load capacity at point B is reached. This point is
termed as "peak" strength.
3. A post peak descending portion following the peak strength until complete failure of the
composite. The load-deflection response in this portion of behavior and the degree at
which loss in strength is encountered with increasing deformation is an important
indication of the ability of the fiber composite to absorb large amounts of energy before
failure and is a characteristic that distinguishes fiber-reinforced concrete from plain
concrete. This characteristic is referred to as toughness.

FIGURE4.5 Load Deflection Curve of Steel Fiber Reinforced Concrete Specimens

17

The nonlinear portion between A and B exists, only if a sufficient volume fraction of fibers is
present. For low volume fraction of fibers (Vf < 0.5%), the ultimate flexural strength coincides
with the first cracking strength and the load deflection curve descends immediately after the
cracking load.

FIGURE4.6: Typical Load Deflection Curves of SFRC Beams with low volume fraction
of fibers
Two concepts are proposed in the literature for explaining the factors that affect the magnitude
of the "first cracking strength or proportional limit". One concept relates the "first cracking
strength" to the spacing of the fibers in the composite [Romualdi and Batson 1963; Romualdi
and Mandel 1964]. The other concept is based on the mechanics of the composite materials
and relates the "proportional limit" to the volume fraction of the fiber, aspect ratio and fiber
orientation.
In the Fiber spacing concept, it is stipulated that the volume fraction of fibers and fiber aspect
ratio must be such that there is a fiber overlap; however, except for this, the fiber aspect ratio
L/df which has a significant effect on the flexural strength of SFRC is not a parameter in the
fiber spacing approach. Experimental results by some investigators [Edington et al. (1974);

18

Swamy and Mangat (1974)] tend to show that the fiber spacing concept does not accurately
predict the first cracking strength of fiber-reinforced concrete.
The law of composite materials is believed to be simple and is proven experimentally [shah
and Rangan 1971] to be more accurate for the prediction of first cracking strength comparison
with the fiber spacing concept. The composite materials approach is based on the assumptions
in that the fibers are aligned in the direction of the load, the fibers are bonded to the matrix,
and the Poisson's ratio of the matrix is zero. In the law of composite materials the effect of
fibers on the cracking behavior of SFRC composites can be viewed similarly to conventional
reinforcing steel in concrete members. However, because the fibers are randomly distributed,
an efficiency factor is commonly multiplied by the volume fraction of fibers to account for
their random distribution.

19

CHAPTER-5
REVIEW OF LITERATURE

5.1 PREVIOUS PREPARATION, PROPERTIES AND MIX DESIGN OF FIBRE

REINFORCED CONCRETE
The influence of fibers in improving the compressive strength of the matrix depends on whether
mortar or concrete (having coarse aggregates) is used and on the magnitude of compressive
strength. Studies prior to 1988 including those of Williamson [1974], Naaman et al. [1974]
showed that with the addition of fibers there is an almost negligible increase in strength for
mortar mixes; however for concrete mixes, strength increases by as much as 23%. Furthermore,
Otter and Naaman [1988] showed that use of steel fibers in lower strength concretes increases
their compressive strength significantly compared to plain unreinforced matrices and is directly
related to volume fraction of steel fiber used. This increase is more for hooked fibers in
comparison with straight steel fibers, glass or polypropylene fibers.
Ezeldin and Balaguru [1992] conducted tests to obtain the complete stress-strain curves of steel
fiber-reinforced concrete with compressive strengths ranging from 35 MPa to 84 MPa (5,000
to 12,000 psi). The matrix consisted of concrete rather than mortar. Three volume fibers
fractions of 50 psi, 75 psi and 100 psi (30 kg/m3, 45 kg/ m3 and 60 kg/m3) and three aspect
ratios of 60, 75 and 100 were investigated. It was reported that the addition of hooked-end steel
fibers to concrete, with or without silica fume, increased marginally the compressive strength
and the strain corresponding to peak stress.
5.2 FLEXURAL BEHAVIOUR OF SFRC AS PER PREVIOUS STUDIES
Shah and Rangan [1971] proposed the following general equation for predicting the ultimate
flexural strength of the fiber composite
= (1 )(/)

Where FCC, is the ultimate strength of the fiber composite, G is the maximum strength of the
plain matrix (mortar or concrete), A and B are constants which can be determined

20

experimentally. For plain concrete, A = 1 and B = 0. The constant B accounts for the bond
strength of the fibers and randomness of fiber distribution. Swamy et al. [1974a]
established values for the constants A and B as 0.97 and 4.94 for the ultimate flexural strength
of steel fiber-reinforced concrete and 0.843 and 4.25 for its first cracking strength.
A comparative evaluation of the static flexural strength for concretes with and without different
types of fibers: hooked-end steel, straight steel, corrugated steel, a polypropylene fibers was
conducted by Ramakrishnan et al. [1989]. The fibers were tested at 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0% by
volume. It was reported that maximum quantity of hooked-end fibers that could be added
without causing balling was limited to 1.0 percent by volume. Compared to plain concrete, the
addition of fibres increased the first cracking strength (15 to 90 percent) and static flexural
strength (15 to 129 percent). Compared on equal basis of 1.0 percent by volume, the hookedend steel fiber contributed to the highest increase, and the straight fibers provided the least
appreciable increase in the above mentioned properties.
Ezeidin and Lowe [1991] studied the flexural strength properties of rapid-set materials
reinforced with steel fibers. The primary variables were (a) rapid-set cementing materials, (b)
Fiber type, and (c) fiber content. Four fiber types made of low-carbon steel were incorporated
in this study. Two were hooked and one was crimped at the ends, and one was crimped
throughout the length. Steel fibers were added in the quantities of 50, 75 and 100 lbs/yd3 (30,
45 and 6 kg/m). An increase in the flexural strength was observed. The fiber efficiency in
enhancing the flexural strength is controlled by the fiber surface Deformation, aspect ratio, and
fiber content. The results further indicate that steel fibers are very effective in improving the
flexural toughness of rapid-set materials. Toughness indexes as high as 4 for I5 and 9 for I10
can be achieved with fiber contents of 75 lbs. /yd3

(45 kg/m3).

Johnston and Zemp [1991] investigated the flexural performance under static loads for nine
mixtures, using sets of 15 specimens for each mixture. Each set of 102 x 102 x 356 mm (4 x 4
x 14 in.) specimens were prepared from five nominally identical batches and tested under third
point loading over a 305 mm (12 in.) span. First crack strengths defined in ASTM C. 108 as
the point on the load-deflection curve at which the form of the curve first becomes nonlinear,
and ultimate strength based on the maximum flexural load (ASTM C 78) were established for
the eight fibrous concretes, with only ultimate strength for the plain concrete control.

21

5.3 PREVIOUS INVESTIGATIONS ON FLEXURAL TOUGHNESS, ENERGY

ABSORPTION, DUCTILITY AND LOAD DEFLECTION BEHAVIOUR
ASTM C 1018 provides Method A for evaluating the toughness of fiber reinforced composites
through the use of a toughness index. The toughness index is calculated as the area under the
load-deflection curve up to the prescribed service deflection divided by the area under the loaddeflection curve up to the first cracking deflection. Three indexes are described in ASTM C
1018: Is, I1o and I20 corresponding respectively to deflections of 3, 5.5 and 10.5 times the
deflection at first cracking. These indices provide indications of the shape of the load-deflection
response (post cracking) and available ductility. It should be pointed out that the value of I5,
I10 and in is unity for elastic, perfectly brittle material behavior and is equal to 5, 10 and 20
respectively for elastic, perfectly plastic material behavior.
Tests conducted on steel fiber-reinforced concrete by Otter and Naaman [1988] showed that
the increase in toughness was directly related to the volume fraction of fibers with values of
toughness index in compression of up to about 4 for specimens reinforced with 2.1 % volume
fraction of hooked steel fibers. For concrete reinforced with straight, smooth fires, increasing
the aspect ratio of fibers from 45 to 80 resulted only in a mineral increase in compressive
toughness. The use of glass and polypropylene fibers led to low toughness values compared to
steel fibers. Otter and Naaman [1988] attributed in part the low performance of glass and
polypropylene fibers to the high aspect ratios of the fibers used which led to difficult mixing
and possibly higher porosity.
Johnston and Career [1989] established that fiber-matrix combinations produce on the loaddeflection curve with the maximum load at deflection much higher than the first crack
deflection. The results of their work indicated that increasing the fiber content from 0.5 to 1.5%
had a significant beneficial effect on the first crack (and ultimate) strengths despite the negative
influence of increasing w/c and w/(c+f). The Increase in first crack strength of 31%, unadjusted
for the differences in w/c and w/(c+f) is quite large, since it is widely believed that increasing
fiber content has only a minor effect on first crack strength for many of the types of fiber in
current use.
The post cracking toughness (measured by means of a toughness index) of high strength
concretes with steel and polypropylene fibers increases with increase in volume fraction Fibers
was determined by Benaiche and Baar [1989]. The fracture toughness of cement-based
composites reinforced with relatively high fiber volume (up to 15 percent) was studied by
Mobasher et al. [1990]. Crack propagation and damage distribution were examined by laser
holographic interferometry. Based on fracture mechanisms observed during experimental
studies, an R-curve approach was proposed to predict the toughening of matrices due to fiber
reinforcement. The theoretical predictions show a good agreement with the experimental
results for both the steel fiber composites and glass fiber composites.
Ezeldin and Lowe [1991] investigated the flexural toughness for rapid set materials. The
primary variables were (a) rapid-set cementing materials, (b) fiber type, and (c) fiber content.
22

Three commercially available rapid-set materials were investigated. Four fiber types made of
low-carbon steel were incorporated in the study. Two were hooked at the ends, one was
crimped at the ends, and one was crimped throughout the length. Steel fibers were added in
quantities of 50, 75 and 100 psi (30, 45 and 60 kg/m3). The results indicated that steel fibers
are very effective in improving the flexural toughness of rapid- set materials. Toughness
indexes as high as 4 for 5 and 9 for 10 can be achieved with fiber contents of 75 psi (45 kg/m3).
Balaguru et al. [1992] conducted flexural tests on deformed steel fibers reinforced concrete
beams. The variables investigated were fiber type, length and volume fraction, and matrix
composition. The results indicate that fiber content in the range of 30 to 60 kg/m (50 to 100
lbs/yd3) provide excellent ductility for normal strength concrete. The fiber content has to be
increase to about 90 kg/m3 (150 lbs/yd3) for high strength concrete.
The load-deflection curves for normal strength concrete beams and high strength concrete
beams with 30 mm long hooked-end fibers. It has been reported by Ashour [1993] that steel
fibers also enhance the strength and ductility of high strength concrete beams.
The toughness indexes were calculated based on the ASTM C 1018 procedure by Stevens et
al. [1995]. Based on these results the following observations were made
1. Increase in fiber content results in consistent increase in ductility and energy-absorption
capacity. The post peak loaddeflection responses are flatter and the toughness index are
higher.
2. Toughness Indexes 5 and 10 computed using the ASTM procedure are not sensitive enough
to show the variations that are present in the loaddeflection responses. If deflections are
measured accurately, values 50 and 100 can be computed for all fiber types and fiber
contents greater than or equal to 50 pcy (30 kg/m3).
3. Higher fiber contents result in much higher load-retaining capacity at large deflections. In
almost all cases, there was a considerable difference in 100 between fiber contents.
4. The magnitude of toughness indexes are quite different from those reported in the literature.
G. Appa Rao and B.K. Raghu Prasad [2005] conducted an experimental study on the Fracture
energy and Tension Softening behavior of Steel Fiber Reinforced High Strength Concrete.
They established that with a small fraction of steel fibers 0.62% by volume, the mode of failure
changes from catastrophic to gradual. Also, with the addition of steel fibers, the energy
absorption capacity of concrete increases very significantly.
5.4 IMPACT RESISTANCE OF SFRC
M. Arockiasamy, A.S.J. Swammidas and K. Munaswamy [1987] published a paper regarding
the experimental and analytical investigation on the impact behavior of fiber reinforced
concrete cylindrical panels. It considered the impact forces and structural responses of the
modelled concrete shell panels. The impact resistance modelling took into account the mass,
velocity and shape of impacting surface and the impact interface stiffness as the parameters.
23

Ramakrishnan et al. [1989] used four types of steel fibers to evaluate the impact resistance. The
impact specimens were tested at 28 days by the drop weight test method [ACI Committee 544
1990]. This method is simple, inexpensive and can also be conducted in the field. The impact
tests were conducted for hooked end steel (Type A), straight steel (type B), corrugated steel
(Type C) and polypropylene (Type D) fibers. Type A had an apparent aspect ratio of 100, while
type B had an aspect ratio of only 40. The maximum increase in impact resistance results from
the use of Type A fiber but Type C fiber also contributes a higher impact resistance at higher
fiber contents.
The impact strength at first crack increased considerably with the increase in fiber content.
Compared with plain concrete, the increase in impact strengths at full failure were 640%,
847%, 1,824%, 2,806% respectively for concretes with 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0% (volume) Type
C fiber content. The results of the
Study prove that fiber concretes incorporating hooked end and corrugated steel fibers (Type
A and C) have an excellent impact resistance.
The experimental results conducted by Hackman et al. [1992]; Krstulovic Opara et al. [1994]
suggested that there is no need for stirrups in flexural members with SIFCON matrix. The
promising new development uses steel fiber mats to reinforce concrete matrix. This new
approach, called SIMCON (Slurry Infiltrated Mat Concrete), produces concrete components
with extremely high flexural strength. The advantage of steel fiber mats over a large volume
of discrete fibers is that the mat configuration provides inherent strength and can utilize fibers
with much higher aspect ratios. The fiber volume is less than required for SIFCON (Slurry
Infiltrated Fiber Concrete), while achieving similar flexural strength and energy absorption
capacity i.e..,. Improved toughness.
J. Premalatha, D. Tensing and T.M. Murali [2004] carried out experimental investigation on
the Impact strength of High strength Steel Fiber Reinforced silica flumes concrete. Impact
specimens were cast for M60 grade of concrete with steel fibers of aspect ratio 50 in different
proportions with partial replacement of cement by silica fumes. The casting and testing under
impact loads were as per ACI 541 recommendations. The impact strength of SFRC without
silica fumes was found to increase with increase in volume fraction of steel fibers. Same was
observed in the case of silica fume for 1.5% volume but the impact strength was found to
decrease for 2.0% volume.
24

5.5 FATIGUE
No standard test (specimen size, type of loading, loading rate, fatigue failure criteria) is
currently available to evaluate the flexural fatigue performance of fiber reinforced concrete.
However, several earlier experimental fatigue studies were conducted on steel fiber
reinforced concrete and mortar in bending by Batson et al.[1972]; Zollo [1972] using a testing
procedure, specimen sizes and loading conditions similar to those employed for static flexural
test of FRC or tests for conventional concrete with reserved and non-reserved fatigue loading.
In evaluating available fatigue data of steel FRC, Anderson [1978] indicated that past
investigations could have probably underestimated the fatigue resistance of steel FRC. This is
because those investigations used the firs cracking strength of fiber composite as the reference
strength. Since fiber addition modifies the cracking strength of plain concrete, Anderson
pointed out that proper reference strength for fatigue evaluation of FRC beams should be taken
as unreinforced plain matrix beam strength. Using the proposed method of fatigue evaluation,
Anderson showed that the fatigue resistance based on published fatigue data was much higher
than reported.
Fatigue tests conducted on steel fiber reinforced concrete by Ramakrishnan et al. [1987]
showed that the addition of collated hooked end steel fibers results in a considerable increase
in the flexural fatigue strength of concrete. The flexural fatigue strength was increased by 200%
to 250%, and endurance limit (to achieve two million cycles) was increased 90% to 95%, when
compared to plain concrete.
From tests of similar beam specimens either dimensions 6 x 6 x 21 in. (150 x 150 x 525 mm)
in flexural fatigue under 20Hz non reversed loading with different types of fibers (hooked,
straight, corrugated steel fibers and polypropylene fibers) and different volume fractions of
fibers (0.5% and 1.0%), Ramakrishnan et al. [1989] observed that fatigue strength and
endurance limit (to achieve two million cycles) increased with the addition of fibers and
increasing volume fraction of fibers.
The endurance limit of FRC in flexural bending is defined as the maximum flexural stress at
which the beam could withstand a prescribed number of loading cycles (usually two million
cycles), expressed as percentage of either: (1). its virgin static flexural strength (first cracking
strength or modulus of rupture), or (2). The maximum static flexural strength of similar plain
unreinforced matrix (control). The flexural fatigue strength of steel FRC was reported to be
25

about 80 90% of its static flexural strength at two million cycles when non reserved loading
is applied and about 70% of its static flexural strength when full reversed loading is used as
proposed by ACI Committee 544 [1990].
Johnston and Zemp [1991] investigated flexural fatigue behavior of steel fiber reinforced
concrete involving nine different mixtures, including a control concrete without fibers. The
fiber parameters were varied such that the effects of fiber content, fiber aspect ratio and fiber
type could be studied independently, while other fiber variables were held constant. The fiber
content was varied between 0.5 1.5 percent (volume). A total of 194 fatigue tests and 135
tests of static flexural strength were conducted. Comparison of S N relationships based on
stress as a percentage of first crack strength under static loading shows essentially the same
trends as S N relationships based on stress as a percentage of ultimate strength under static
loading.

26

CHAPTER-6
USES & APPLICATION OF SFRC

6.1 STRUCTURAL USE OF SFRC

As recommended by ACI Committee 544, when used in structural applications, steel fiber
reinforced concrete should only be used in a supplementary role to inhibit cracking, to improve
resistance to impact or dynamic loading, and to resist material disintegration. In structural
members where flexural or tensile loads will occur. The reinforcing steel must be capable of
supporting the total tensile load. Thus, while there are a number of techniques for predicting
the strength of beams reinforced only with steel fibers, there are no predictive equations for
large SFRC beams, since these would be expected to contain conventional reinforcing bars as
well. An extensive guide to design considerations for SFRC has recently been published by the
American Concrete Institute. In this section, the use of SFRC will be discussed primarily in
structural members which also contain conventional reinforcement.
For beams containing both fibers and continuous reinforcing bars, the situation is complex,
since the fibers act in two ways
1. They permit the tensile strength of the SFRC to be used in design, because the matrix will
no longer lose its load-carrying capacity at first crack; and
2. They improve the bond between the matrix and the reinforcing bars by inhibiting the
growth of cracks emanating from the deformations (lugs) on the bars.
However, it is the improved tensile strength of SFRC that is mostly considered in the beam
analysis, since the improvements in bond strength are much more difficult to quantify. Steel
fibers have been shown to increase the ultimate moment and ultimate deflection of
conventionally reinforced beams; the higher the tensile stress due to the fibers, the higher the
ultimate moment.

27

FIGURE 6.1: Experimental Moment versus Deflection Curves for SFRC

28

6.2 APPLICATION OF SFRC

Most common applications are pavements, tunnel linings, pavements and slabs, shotcrete and
now shotCrete also containing silica fume, airport pavements, bridge deck slab repairs, and so
on. There has also been some recent experimental work on roller-compacted concrete (RCC)
reinforced with steel fibers. The list is endless, apparently limited only by the ingenuity of the
engineers involved. The fibers themselves are, unfortunately, relatively expensive; a 1% steel
fiber addition will The uses of SFRC over the past thirty years have been so varied and so
widespread, that it is difficult to categorize them. The approximately double the material costs
of the concrete, and this has tended to limit the use of SFRC to special applications.
6.2.1 Uses of SFRC in Indian Project

KRCL-MSRDC Tunnels.
NafthaJakarihydro electric project.
KOL hydroelectric project.
Baglihar hydroelectric project.
Chamera hydroelectric project.
Uri dam.
Sirsisilam project.
Tehri dam project.
Salalhydro electric project.
Ranganadihydro electric project.

29

FIGURE 6.2: KRCL-MSRDC Tunnels

6.3 BENEFITS OF USING STEEL FIBRES IN CONCRETE

FIGURE 6.3: Steel Fibre in Concrete

The use of steel fibre in concrete can improve its many properties. The benefits of using steel
fibres in concrete are as follows
1. Steel Fibres are generally distributed throughout a given cross section whereas
reinforcing bars or wires are placed only where required
2.

Steel fibres are relatively short and closely spaced as compared with continuous
reinforcing bars of wires.
30

3.

It is generally not possible to achieve the same area of reinforcement to area of concrete
using steel fibres as compared to using a network of reinforcing bars of wires.

4. Steel Fibers are typically added to concrete in low volume dosages (often less than 1%),
and have been shown to be effective in reducing plastic shrinkage cracking.
5. Steel Fibers typically do not significantly alter free shrinkage of concrete, however at
high enough dosages they can increase the resistance to cracking and decrease crack
width (Shah, Weiss, and Yang 1998).
6.3.1 Steel Fibres in Concrete can improve

Crack, Impact and Fatigue Resistance

Shrinkage Reduction

Toughness- by preventing/delaying crack propagation from micro-cracks to macro-cracks.

6.3.2Benifits of Steel Fiber Reinforced Concrete

SFRC distributes localized stresses.

Reduction in maintenance and repair cost.

Provides tough and durable surfaces.

Reduces surface permeability, dusting and wear.

Cost saving.

They act as crack arrestor.

Increases tensile strength and toughness.

Resistance to impact.

Resistance to freezing and thawing

31

6.4 MAJOR STUCTURES OF SFRC ALL OVER THE WORLD

32

REFERENCE
1. IS 456:2000
2. Concrete Technology: Theory and Practice by M.S.Shetty,
3. Perumalsamy N. Balaguru, Sarendra P. Shah, Fiber Reinforced Cement Composites, Mc

Graw Hill International Editions 1992.

WEBSITES
www.wikipedia.com
www.civilengineering.com

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