EFFECT OF FIBER GEOMETRY ON MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF

STEEL FIBER REINFORCED CONCRETE

A Minor Project Report Submitted To

JAWAHARLAL NEHRU TECHNOLOGICAL

UNIVERSITY, HYDERABAD
In partial fulfillment of the requirements
For the award of degree of

BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOGY

In

CIVIL ENGINEERING

Submitted by

M. HEMANTH (16881A0134)
D. GOWTHAM KUMAR REDDY (16881A0113)
A. MANEKAR (16881A0103)
M.UDAY REDDY (16881A0137)

Under the Supervision of

Dr. G. Mallikarjuna Rao
(Head of the Department)
(Associate Professor)

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

(AUTONOMOUS)
Shamshabad - 501218, Hyderabad.
(Approved by AICTE, New Delhi, Affiliated to JNTUH)
NOVEMBER - 2019
 VARDHAMAN COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
(AUTONOMOUS)
Shamshabad - 501 218, Hyderabad
DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that the work embodies in this mini project report entitled on “EFFECT OF
FIBER GEOMETRY ON MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF STEEL FIBER
REINFORCED CONCRETE” being submitted by M.HEMANTH (16881A0134),
D.GOWTHAM KUMAR REDDY (16881A0113), A.MANEKAR (16881A0103),
M.UDAYREDDY (16881A0137), in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the award of
Bachelor of Technology in Civil Engineering discipline to Vardhaman College of
Engineering, Shamshabad, Hyderabad during the academic year 2019-2020 is a record of
bonafide piece of work, undertaken by us under the supervision of the undersigned.

GUIDE H.O.D
Dr. G. MALLIKARJUNA RAO Dr. G. MALLIKARJUNA RAO
Associate Professor Associate Professor & Head,
Department of Civil Engineering Department of Civil Engineering
Vardhaman College of Engineering, Vardhaman College of Engineering,
Hyderabad. Hyderabad.

VARDHAMAN COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING

(AUTONOMOUS)
Shamshabad - 501 218, Hyderabad
 VARDHAMAN COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
(AUTONOMOUS)
Shamshabad - 501 218, Hyderabad
DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

DECLARATION

We hereby declare that the project report entitled on “EFFECT OF FIBER GEOMETRY
ON MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF STEEL FIBER REINFORCED CONCRETE”
Under guidance of Dr. G. MALLIKARJUNA RAO submitted in the fulfillment of the
requirements for the mini project. This is a bonafide work carried out by us and the results embodied
in this project report have not been reproduced or copied from any source. The results embodied in
this project report have not been submitted to any other university or institution for the award of any
other degree or diploma.

M. HEMANTH (16881A0134)
D. GOWTHAM KUMAR REDDY (16881A0113)
A. MANEKAR (16881A0103)
M.UDAY REDDY (16881A0137)
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We express our whole-hearted gratitude to Dr. S. SAI SATYANARAYANA REDDY,

Principal, Vardhaman College of Engineering for providing us the conductive environment
for carrying out our academic schedules and projects with ease.

Our sincere thanks to Dr. G. MALLIKARJUNA RAO, Associate Professor and Head,
Department of Civil Engineering, Vardhaman College of Engineering for providing
facilities in completing the dissertation work.

We would like to express our deep sense of respect and gratitude towards our advisor and
guide Dr. G. MALLIKARJUNA RAO, Associate Professor who has been guiding us
behind this work. We are greatly indebted to his constant encouragement and for propelling
us further in every aspect of our academic life. His presence and optimism have provided an
invaluable influence on our career and outlook for the future. We consider it our good
fortune to have got an opportunity to work with such a wonderful person.

I have great pleasure to thank lab Assistants in fulfilling our lab needs and supplies.

We would like to give heart full appreciation to our parents, who brought us up with their
love and encouraged us to study and get advanced degree.

Finally, we wish to thank all those people who helped us directly or indirectly in successful
completion of our project in time.

M. HEMANTH (16881A0134)
D. GOWTHAM KUMAR REDDY (16881A0113)
A. MANEKAR (16881A0103)
M.UDAY REDDY (16881A0137)
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE NO

ABSTRACT 1

CHAPTER – 1

Introduction

1.1. General Introduction 2

1.2. Different Types of fibers 3
1.3. Steel Fiber Reinforced Concrete(SFRC) 5
1.4. SFRC Benefits 5
1.5. SFRC Applications 7
1.5.1 Highway and Air – field pavements 7
1.5.2 Structural Applications 7
1.5.3 Fiber shotcrete 7

CHAPTER – 2

Literature Review

2.1. Semsi Yazici [2006] 8

2.2. D. V. soulioti [2009] 8

2.3. Leila Soufeiani [2016] 8

2.4. Zemei Wu [2016] 9

2.5. Dr. Chandrasekhar Reddy [2017] 9

CHAPTER – 3

Scope and Objective

3.1. Scope 10

3.2. Objectives 10

CHAPTER – 4

Materials
 4.1. Materials 11

4.2. Cement 11

4.3. Coarse Aggregates 11

4.4. Fine Aggregate 11

4.5. Water 12

4.6. Steel Fibers 12

4.6.1. Hooked End Steel Fibers 12

4.6.2. Crimpled End Steel Fibers 13

CHAPTER – 5

Experimental program

5.1. Mix Design 14

5.2. Experimental program 16

5.2.1. Compressive Strength test 16

5.2.2. Split Tensile Strength test 17

5.2.3. Flexural Strength test 19

CHAPTER – 6

Results and Discussion

6.1. Compressive Strength test Results 21

6.2. Split Tensile Strength test Results 22

6.3. Flexural Strength test Results 22

CHAPTER – 7

Conclusions

7.1. Conclusions 34

CHAPTER - 8

References

8.1 References 25
 TABLES
1.1. Different Types of Fibers And Their Specifications 3

4.1. Properties of the Steel Fibers 12

5.1. Quantities of Ingredients Per Cum of M20 Grade Concrete 15

6.1. Compressive Strength Results Of 7 Days and 28 Days 21

6.2. Split Tensile Strength Results 22

6.3. Flexural Strength Results 23

FIGURES
1.1. Classification of Fibers 4

1.2. Load-Deflection Curves for Plain and Fibrous Concrete 6

4.1. Hooked End Steel Fibers 12

4.2. Crimpled Steel Fibers 13

5.1. Compressive Strength Testing of Cubes 17

5.2. Split Tensile Strength Testing of Cylinder 17

5.3. Failure of Cylinder 19

5.4. Flexural Strength Testing of prisms 19

5.5. Failure of Prisms 20

 ABSTRACT
Unreinforced Concrete has low tensile strength and low strain capacity at fracture. When
subjected to tension, the unreinforced concrete initially deforms elastically followed by macro-
cracking, localized cracking and finally fracture occurs. Various fibrous materials are being
incorporated into concrete to resist the cracking or increase the strain capacity of the concrete.
Introduction of fibers into concrete results in effect on the properties of concrete that depends
on the type of fiber, fiber matrix, geometry, content aspect ratio and various other factors. We
introduce the steel fibers to resist the macro cracking. This work aims the study of effect of
steel fiber geometry on mechanical properties of concrete such as compressive strength, tensile
strength and flexural strength. We considered the optimum percentage of the steel fiber content
as 1% and used fibers of two different geometries and their combinations. The fibers used for
this study are fibers with Hooked End and Crimpled Geometry. Six different mixes were
prepared. Cubes of size 150mmx150mmx150mm were prepared to test under compression for
7 and 28 days. The specimens for tensile strength measurement cylinders and prisms were
prepared and tested after 28 days of curing. The fiber geometry is found to be key factor
effecting the mechanical properties of the Steel Fiber Reinforced Concrete.

KEY WORDS: Macro-Cracking, Localized Cracking, Fiber Geometry, Aspect Ratios

1
 CHAPTER-1
INTRODUCTION
1.1 General Introduction
One of the undesirable characteristics of the concrete as a brittle material is its low
tensile strength, and strain capacity. Therefore it requires reinforcement in order to be used as
the most widely construction material. Conventionally, this reinforcement is in the form of
continuous steel bars placed in the concrete structure in the appropriate positions to withstand
the imposed tensile and shear stresses. Fibers, on the other hand, are generally short,
discontinuous, and randomly distributed throughout the concrete member to produce a
composite construction material known as fiber reinforced concrete (FRC). Fibers used in
cement-based composites are primarily made of steel, glass, and polymer or derived from
natural materials. Fibers can control cracking more effectively due to their tendency to be more
closely spaced than conventional reinforcing steel bars. It should be highlighted that fiber used
as the concrete reinforcement is not a substitute for conventional steel bars. Fibers and steel
bars have different roles to play in advanced concrete technology, and there are many
applications in which both fibers and continuous reinforcing steel bars should be used.

Historically, steel has been used as the material of choice for tensile reinforcement in
concrete. Unlike conventional reinforcing bars, which are specifically designed and placed in
the tensile zone of the concrete member, fibers are thin, short and distributed randomly
throughout the concrete member. Fibers are commercially available and manufactured from
steel, plastic, glass and other natural materials. Steel fibers can be defined as discrete, short
length of steel having ratio of its length to diameter (i.e. aspect ratio) in the range of 20 to 100
with any of the several cross-sections, and that are sufficiently small to be easily and randomly
dispersed in fresh concrete mix using conventional mixing procedure. The random distribution
results in a loss of efficiency as compared to conventional rebars, but the closely spaced fibers
improve toughness and tensile properties of concrete and help to control cracking. In many
situations it is prudent to combine fiber reinforcement with conventional steel reinforcement
to improve performance. Fiber Reinforced Concrete (FRC) is defined as a composite material
essentially consisting of conventional concrete or mortar reinforced by the random dispersal of
short, discontinuous, and discrete fine fibers of specific geometry.

2
 Steel fiber (SF) is the most popular type of fiber used as concrete reinforcement.
Initially, SFs are used to prevent/control plastic and drying shrinkage in concrete. Further
research and development revealed that addition of SFs in concrete significantly increases its
flexural toughness, the energy absorption capacity, ductile behavior prior to the ultimate
failure, reduced cracking, and improved durability.

1.2 Different Types of Fibers

There are two methods to categorize fibres according to their modulus of elasticity or
their origin. In the view of modulus of elasticity, fibres can be classified into two basic
categories, namely, those having a higher elastic modulus than concrete mix (called hard
intrusion) and those with lower elastic modulus than the concrete mix (called soft intrusion).
Steel, carbon and glass have higher elastic modulus than cement mortar matrix, and
polypropylene and vegetable fibres are classified as the low elastic modulus fibres. High elastic
modulus fibers simultaneously can improve both flexural and impact resistance; whereas, low
elastic modulus fibres can improve the impact resistance of concrete but do not contribute much
to its flexural strength.

According to the origin of fibres, they are classified in three categories of metallic
fibers (such as steel, carbon steel, and stainless steel), mineral fibers (such as asbestos and glass
fibers), and organic fibers. Organic fibers can be further divided into natural and man-made
fibers. Natural fibers can be classified into vegetable origin or sisal (such as wood fibers and
leaf fibers), and animal origin (such as hair fibers and silk). Man-made fibers can also be
divided into two groups as natural polymer (such as cellulose and protein fibers), and synthetic
fibers (such as nylon and polypropylene).

Table 1.1 Different types of fibers and their specifications

Fibers Diameter Specific Modulus of Tensile Elongation

(μm) Gravity Elasticity Strength to Failure
(GPa) (GPa) (%)
Chrysotile Asbestos 0.02-20 2.55 164 3.1 2-3
Crocidolite Asbestos 0.1-20 2.55 196 3.5 2-3
E-Glass 9-15 2.56 77 2-3.5 2-3.5
AR-Glass 9-15 2.71 80 2-2.8 2-3

3
Fibrillated Polypropylene 20-200 0.91 5 0.5 20
Steel 5-500 7.84 200 1-3 3-4
Stainless Steel 5-500 7.84 160 2.1 3
Carbon Type I 3 1.90 380 1.8 0.5
Carbon Type II 9 1.90 230 2.6 1.0
Aramid(Kevlar) 10 1.45 65-133 3.6 2.1-4.0
Cellulose - 1.2 10 0.4 -
Wood - 1.5 71 09 -
Nylon(Type 242) >4 1.14 4 0.9 15

Figure 1.1: Classification of Fibers

4
1.3 Steel Fiber Reinforced Concrete (SFRC)

SFRC is produced using the conventional hydraulic cements, fine and coarse
aggregates, water, and SFs. American concrete institution defines SFs as discrete, short lengths
of steel having aspect ratio (ratio of length to diameter) in the range of 20 to 100 with any of
the several cross-section which are sufficiently small to be easily and randomly dispersed in
fresh concrete mix using conventional mixing procedures. To enhance the workability and
stability of SFRC, superplasticizers (chemical admixtures) may also be added into the concrete
mix.

The behavior of SFRC can be classified into three groups according to its application,
fiber volume percentage and fiber effectiveness; for instance SFRC is classified based on its
fiber volume percentage as follows:

1- Very low volume fraction of SF (less than 1% per volume of concrete), which has
been used for many years to control plastic shrinkage and as pavement reinforcement.

2- Moderate volume fraction of SFs (l% to 2% per volume of concrete) which can
improve modulus of rupture (MOR), flexural toughness, impact resistance and other desirable
mechanical properties of concrete.

3-High volume fraction of SFs (more than 2% per volume of concrete) used for special
applications such as impact and blast resistance structure; these include SIFCON (Slurry
Infiltrated Fiber Concrete), SIMCON (Slurry Infiltrated Mat Concrete).

In most cases, SFs may act as secondary reinforcement used along with conventional
steel bars or prestressing strands as the main reinforcement. In the class of high volume fraction
of SFs (more than 2% per volume of concrete), the SFs have excellent mechanical properties
and can be used without other continuous reinforcement; however, these composite materials
are often suited for highly specialized applications due to the limitations associated with
processing and cost.

1.4 SFRC Benefits

The beneficial influence of SFs in concrete depends on many factors such as type,
shape, length, cross section, strength, fiber content, SFs bond strength, matrix strength, mix

5
design, and mixing of concrete. The addition of SFs in the conventional reinforced concrete
(RC) members has several advantages such as

1- SFs increase the tensile strength of the matrix, thereby improving the flexural
strength of the concrete.

2- The crack bridging mechanism of SFs and their tendency to redistribute stresses
evenly throughout the matrix contribute to the post-cracking strength and restraining of the
cracks in the concrete.

3- Increase ductility of the concrete.

4- SFRC is more durable and serviceable than conventional RC.

The only disadvantage of SFRC would be its decreased workability and accelerated
stiffening of fresh concrete due to the addition SFs, thereby increasing the construction labor
and time due to the excess vibration required to make the SFRC workable. This problem could
be partially overcome with the use of newly developed high range superplasticizers which not
only enhance the workability of SFRC but also maintain the plasticity of the mix for a longer
time.

Figure 1.2: Load-Deflection Curves for Plain and Fibrous Concrete.

6
1.5 SFRC Application

1.5.1 Highway and air-field pavements

SFRC can be used in the construction of new pavements or for the repair of existing
pavements by the use of bonded or un-bounded overlays to the beneath slab. It leads to a higher
flexural strength causing a decrease in the pavement’s thickness required. Besides, the
resistance to impact and repeated loading will be increased. The greater tensile strain capacity
of SFRC leads to a drop in the maximum crack widths than in plain concrete.

1.5.2 Structural Applications

Addition of SFs into the conventional RC members has several advantages such as the
followings, thereby increasing the use of steel-fiber-added RC (SFARC) structures compared
to conventional RC members.

1. Addition of SFs can provide an increased impact resistance to conventional RC

members, thereby enhancing the resistance to local damage and spalling.

2. Addition of SFs can inhibit crack growth and crack widening; this may allow the
use of high strength steel bars without having excessive crack width or deformation at service
loads.

3. Addition of SFs increases the ductility of conventionally RC members, and

hence, enhances their stability and integrity under earthquake and blast loadings.

4. Addition of SFs increases the shear strength of RC members. As a consequence

punching shear strength of slabs will be increased and sudden punching failure can be
transformed into a gradual ductile failure.

1.5.3 Fibre Shotcrete

Fibre shotcrete are used in rock slope stabilization, tunnel lining and bridge repair. A
thin coating of plain shotcrete applied monolithically on top of the fiber shotcrete, maybe used
to prevent surface staining due to rusting of SFs. The fiber shotcrete can be used in the
protection of steel structures.

7
 CHAPTER – 2

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Semsi Yazici et al. [2006] Hooked end bundled and low carbon steel fibres with three
different l/d ratios 45, 65 & 80 are used. Three different fibre volumes were added to each
series of the mixes at 0.5%, 1% and 1.5% by volume of concrete Compressive strength, split
tensile strength and Ultrasonic Pulse velocity are determined at 28 days. With the increase of
volume of fibre workability decreases4-19% higher strength than control mix.Split tensile
strength increased by 11-15%.Split tensile strength of 1.5% fibres is more efficient on split
tensile strength of normal mix. Flexural strength of SFRC is higher about 3-81% than control
concrete. With the increase of l/d ratio and volume fraction flexural strength improved
significantly. As we go for the higher volume fraction of steel fibers more than 1% it results in
decrease of workability and compressive strength. But split tensile strength and flexural
strength are increased significantly.

2.2 D. V. Soulioti et al. [2009] To study how the fresh concrete properties and mechanical
properties such as compressive strength and flexural strength are effected with the variation of
volume fraction of steel fibre and with the variation of the shape of the steel fibre.With the
increase in the fiber content workability decreases and air content increases. Compressive
strength and flexural strength increase with the increase of the fiber content. Hooked end fibers
show much increase in strength comparatively to the waved end fibers. Plain concrete fails
with a crack suddenly. Increase of the fiber fraction resulted in the increase of the initial peak
strength, residual strength and especially flexural toughness. Specimens with hooked end fibers
exhibited higher toughness compare to waved end fibers.

2.3 Leila Soufeiani et al. [2016] This study reviews the effects of shape and volume fraction
of steel fibres on the mechanical properties of SFRC and its response to impact and blast
loadings. Materials responses are classified and compared on basis of several impact tests such
as the drop weight test, the split Hopkinson Pressure bar test, and swinging Pendulum test.
Steel fibres can significantly reduce the brittleness of concrete and overcome some of its
weaknesses. The tensile and flexural properties of concrete could be increased by randomly
dispersing steel fibers into concrete mix. On the basis of fibre volume content SFRC is
classified into three categories. Low, Medium and High fibre volume content. This study
demonstrated that following properties increased with strain rate under dynamic loading:

8
tensile strength, compressive strength, flexural strength. The volume fraction and shape of
fibres have major impact on the above properties.

2.4 Zemei Wu et al. [2016]The objective is to investigate the effects of three different shaped
steel fibres( straight, hooked end and corrugated) with different fibre contents 1%, 2% and 3%
on workability, compressive strength and Flexural behaviour of Concrete.With increase in fibre
content workability decreases due to increase in surface area or resistance offered by steel
fibres. Hooked end fibres concrete has low workability compared to straight and corrugated.
Hooked end fibre concrete has more compressive strength compared to other two types.
Toughness increase with the increase of fibre content. Incorporation of fibres results in
reduction of workability. Compressive and flexural strength increase with increase of fibre
content. Hooked end steel fibres show significant increase in flexural strength compared to
corrugated and straight steel fibres.

2.5 Dr. K. Chandrasekhar Reddy et al. [2017] studied the effect of steel fibers on the strength
of concrete for M 40 grade are studied by varying the percentage of fibers in concrete and types
of fibers. Compressive strength, Split Tensile Strength & Flexural strength are compared.
Fibers addition to concrete results in more closely spaced and improved resistance to the cracks.
Improvement observed in mechanical properties of controlled concrete due to present of steel
fibers. There is a significant increase in Compressive Strength of concrete with addition of
Crimped Steel Fiber when compared to Straight and Hooked Steel Fiber. The percentage
increase in Compressive Strengths of Straight Steel Fiber (2%), Hooked Steel Fiber (2%) and
Crimped Steel Fiber (2%) are 9.84%, 5.9% & 16.92% respectively. Similar trend is followed
for other mechanical properties.

9
 CHAPTER – 3

SCOPE AND OBJECTIVES

3.1 Scope

• The sustainable development with higher strength is the growing demand of

construction industry.

• Concrete is relatively brittle, and its tensile strength is typically only about one tenths
of its compressive strength.

• The development of SFRC can increase the Structural Performance.

• For many applications, it is becoming increasingly popular to reinforce the concrete

with small, randomly distributed fibers.

• Their main purpose is to increase the energy absorption capacity and toughness of the
material, but also increase tensile and flexural strength.

3.2 Objectives

• To study the effect of steel fibre content on mechanical properties (compressive

strength, Split tensile strength and flexural strength) of the concrete.

• To study the effect of combination of hooked end and Crimpled Steel Fibres on the
mechanical properties of the concrete.

• To study how the steel fibre geometry effects the mechanical properties of the concrete.

10
 CHAPTER – 4

MATERIALS

4.1 Materials:

Concrete is used extensively as a construction material because of its versatility. It is good in

compression, but weak in tension. This drawback can be overcome by providing steel in tension
zone. This technique called “REINFORCED CEMENT CONCRETE”, improves the load
carrying capacity of concrete members. At the same time durability of concrete is also
important. Durability is mainly affected due to cracks developed by creep and shrinkage. This
can be avoided by using certain chemical admixtures. But once a crack develops in the member
there are no barriers to stop the propagation of such cracks. In RCC it leads the corrosion of
the reinforcement slowly and finally it results in the failure of the structure.

4.2 Cement:

Cement used in this study was Sagar brand Ordinary Portland Cement of grade 53 confirming
to IS 269-1989. The cement was kept in an airtight container and stored in the humidity
controlled room to prevent cement from being exposed to moisture and various tests were
conducted as per codal provisions.

4.3 Coarse Aggregates:

Crushed granite stone with a maximum size of 20 mm was used as the coarse aggregate
confirming to IS 383-1970.

16mm to 20mm -30%

10mm to 12.5mm- 30%

4.75mm to 10mm-40%

4.4 Fine Aggregate:

River sand passing through 4.75 mm sieve and conforming to grading zone II of IS: 383-1970
was used as the fine aggregate. Normal river sands are suitable for high strength concrete. Both
crushed and rounded sands can be used.

11
4.5 Water:

The Requirements of water used for mixing and curing shall conform to the requirements given
in IS: 456-2000. However use of sea water is prohibited.

4.6 Steel Fibers:

Table 4.1 Properties of Steel Fibers:

S. No Properties Hooked End Fiber Crimpled Fiber

1 Length of fiber 35mm 36mm

2 Diameter of fiber 0.55mm 0.45mm
3 Aspect Ratio of fiber 64 100
4 Ultimate Tensile Strength 1100 N/mm2 700 N/mm2
5 Density 7850 Kg/m3 7850 Kg/m3

4.6.1 Hooked End Steel Fibers:

Steel fiber with hooked ends is made using high-quality low-carbon steel wire. A kind of high-
performance steel fiber, with the characteristics of the high tensile strength, good toughness,
low prices, etc. The product is widely used in concrete strengthening.

Hooked ends steel fiber is made in accordance to the country standard YB/T151-1999 Standard
for Steel Fibers for Concrete Uses, and the JG/T3064-1999 Standard of Steel Fiber for Concrete
Building.

Figure 4.1: Hooked End Steel Fibers

12
4.6.2 Crimpled Steel Fibers:

Crimpled Steel Fibers are low carbon, cold drawn steel wire fibers designed to provide concrete
with temperature and shrinkage crack control, enhanced flexural reinforcement, improved
shear strength and increase the crack resistance of concrete. PSI Crimped Steel Fiber complies
with ASTM C1116, Standard Specification for Fiber Reinforced Concrete and Shotcrete and
ASTM A820, Type I, Standard Specification for Steel Fibers for Fiber Reinforced Concrete.
These steel macro-fibers will also improve impact, shatter, fatigue and abrasion resistance
while increasing toughness of concrete. Dosage rates will vary depending upon the reinforcing
requirements and can range from 15 to 60 kg/m³.

Figure 4.2: Crimpled Steel Fibers

13
 CHAPTER – 5

EXPERIMENTAL PROGRAM

5.1 Mix Design

Target mean strength

20+(1.65*4) =26.60

Selection of water cement ratio

0.55

Selection of water content

197 kg/m3

Calculation of cement content

197/0.55= 354.5454 kg/m3

Aggregates

0.62 for zone 2

Total volume of coarse aggregate= 0.64*0.9 =0.56

Vol of fine aggregate =1-0.56=0.44

Mix calculation

Volume of concrete =1m3

Volume of cement =358.18/(358.18*1000) =0.11378

Volume of water =0.197

Volume of all aggregates = 0.6991

Mass of C.A =1074.54 kg/m3

Mass of F.A =537.27 kg/m3

14
Mix proportions

Cement =358.18kg/m3

Fine aggregates =537.27 kg/m3

Coarse aggregate =1074.54 kg/m3

Water =196.99 kg/m3

Mix proportion ratios:

1: 1.5: 3: 0.55

Table 5.1 Quantities of Ingredients Per Cum Of M20 Grade Concrete

S.No Mix Identification Cement Aggregate Water Steel Fibers

(kg/m3) (lit) (kg)
Fine Coarse Crimpled Hooked
(kg/m3) (kg/m3) End end
1 CC 397 595 1190 218 - -

2 1% (crimpled) 397 595 1190 218 24 -

3 1% (hooked) 397 595 1190 218 - 24

4 0.75%(crimpled) & 397 595 1190 218 18 6

0.25%(hooked)

5 0.5%(crimpled) & 397 595 1190 218 12 12

0.5%(hooked)

6 0.25%(crimpled) & 397 595 1190 218 6 18

0.75%(hooked)

15
5.2 Experimental Program

In order to study the effect of steel fibers on mechanical properties of concrete such as
Compressive Strength, Flexural Strength and Split Tensile Strength a total to 36 cubes , 18
prisms and 12 cylinders are casted respectively. The experimental program is divided into 6
groups. Each group consists of 6 cubes, 3 prisms and 2 cylinders.

 First group is the Plain Concrete with 0% fiber content.

 Second group consisted of Hooked End Steel fiber of volume fraction 1%.
 Third group consisted of Crimpled Steel fibers of volume fraction 1%
 Fourth group consisted of Hooked End Steel fibers of 0.5% volume fraction and
Crimpled Steel fibers of 0.5% volume fraction.
 Fifth group consisted of Hooked End Steel fibers of 0.75% volume fraction and
Crimpled Steel fibers of 0.25% volume fraction.
 Sixth group consisted of Hooked End Steel fibers of 0.25% volume fraction and
Crimpled Steel fibers of 0.75% volume fraction.

5.2.1 Compressive Strength Test:

Compressive strength test According to Indian Standard specifications (IS: 516-1959),the

compression test on cubes of size 150mm X 150 mm X 150 mm were conducted. Compressive
test is the most common test conducted on hardened concrete, partly because it is an easy test
to perform and partly because most of the desirable characteristics properties of the concrete
are qualitatively related to its compressive strength. Metal moulds preferably steel bar 16mm
in diameter, 0.6m long and bullet pointed at the lower end serves as a tamping bar. The test
cube specimens are made as soon as practicable concrete with neither segregation nor excessive
laitance. The concrete is filled in to the moulds in layers approximately 5cm deep, each layer
is compared by the tamping rod in 25 strokes. The test specimens are stored in a place free
from vibration, in moist air of at least 90% relative humidity and at a temperature of 27°C for
24 hours. After thus period the specimens are marked and removed from the moulds and unless
required for test within 24 hours, immediately submerged in clean fresh water or saturated lime
solution and kept their until taken out just prior to test. The dried specimens are then tested on
compressive testing machine.

16
 Figure 5.1: Compressive Strength Testing of Cubes

5.2.2 Split Tensile Strength Test:

The tensile strength is one of the basic and important properties of the concrete. The concrete
is not usually expected to resist the direct tension because of its low tensile strength and brittle
nature. However, the determination of tensile strength of concrete is necessary to determine the
load at which the concrete members may crack. The cracking is a form of tension failure.

Figure 5.2: Split Tensile Strength Testing of Cylinder

17
Apart from the flexural test the other methods to determine the tensile strength of concrete can
be broadly classified as (a) direct method (b) indirect method. The direct method suffers from
a number of difficulties related to holding the specimen properly in the testing machine without
introducing stress concentration, and to the application of un axial tensile load which is free
from eccentricity to the specimen. As the concrete is weak in tension even a small eccentricity
to the load will induce combined bending and axial force condition and the concrete fails at
apparent tensile stress other than the tensile strength. As there are many difficulties associated
with the direct tension test a, number of indirect methods has been developed to determine the
tensile strength In these tests in general a compressive force is applied to a concrete specimen
in such a way that the specimen fail s due to tensile stresses developed in the specimen. The
tensile stress at which the failure occurs is termed as the tensile strength of concrete.

The splitting tests are well known indirect tests used for determining the tensile strength of
concrete sometimes referred to as split tensile strength of concrete. The test consist of applying
a compressive line load along the opposite generators of a concrete cylinder 15 cm diameter
and 30 cm long placed with its axis horizontal between the compressive platens. Due to the
compression loading a fairly uniform tensile stress is developed over nearly 2/3 of the loaded
diameter as obtained from an elastic analysis.

The magnitude of the tensile stress ft (acting in a direction perpendicular to the line of action
of applied loading) is given by the formula ( IS : 816-1999 )

Split Tensile Strength= 2P/3.14D2

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 Figure 5.3: Failure of Cylinder

5.2.3 Flexural Strength Test:

It is the ability of a beam or slab to resist failure in bending. It is measured by loading un-
reinforced 5x5 inch (10 x 10 cm) concrete beams with a span three times the depth (usually
40cm.). The flexural strength is expressed as “Modulus of Rupture” (MR). Flexural MR is
about 12 to 20 percent of compressive strength depending on the type, size and volume of
coarse aggregate used. However, the best correlation for specific materials is obtained by
laboratory tests for given materials and mix design.

Figure 5.4: Flexural Strength Testing of Prisms

The flexural strength of the specimen shall be expressed as the modulus of rupture fs, which,
if ‘a’ equals the distance between the line of fracture and the nearer support, measured on the

19
centre line of the tensile side of the specimen, in cm, shall be calculated to the nearest 0.5 kg/sq
cm as follows

Fs = PL/BD2

The flexural strength of the specimen shall be expressed as the modulus of rupture fs, which,
if ‘a’ equals the distance between the line of fracture and the nearer support, measured on the
centre line of the tensile side of the specimen, in cm.

Figure 5.5 Failure of Prisms

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 CHAPTER – 6

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

6.1 Compressive Strength Results

The variation of the cube compressive strength with the age of M20 grade concrete prepared
using the various combinations of steel fibers. Each value of the cube compressive strength
indicates the average of three test results. It can be observed that all the combinations of Steel
Fiber Reinforced Concrete exhibits improved Compressive strength. But the compressive
strength of concrete with 1% Crimped steel Fibers exhibits more Strength than the control
concree and other Fiber Combinations.

Table 6.1 Compressive Strength Results of 7 Days and 28 Days

Average Average
Percentage of fibers 7 days Compressive 28 days Compressive
(MPa) Strength ( MPa) Strength
(MPa) (Mpa)
14 24.86
No Fibers 18.27 25.89
22.2 26.82
18.6 26
23.92 37.92
1% Hooked End 21.32 35.21
19.44 37.94
20.6 29.76
24.26 42.16
1% Crimpled 24.11 41.53
25.76 40.7
22.32 41.74
21.22 33.92
0.5Hooked+0.5Crimpled 21.03 36.57
22.9 36.98
18.96 38.82
23.96 39.84
0.25Hooked+0.75Crimpled 23.09 41.21
24.08 40.82
21.24 42.96
25.6 37.48
0.25Crimpled+0.75Hooked 22.38 36.25
19.82 34.92
21.7 36.34

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6.2 Split Tensile Strength Results:

The variation of split tensile strength of M20 grade of concrete with different combination of
Steel Fibers (Straight &Hooked) is shown in Figure .The split tensile strength of M20 grade of
control concrete is 3.28MPa. The split tensile strength of Steel Fiber (Straight & Hooked)
Combination Reinforced Concrete exhibits improved strength compared to Control Concrete.
The Concrete with Crimped Steel Fiber possesses higher Split Tensile Strength when compared
to all other combinations.

Table 6.2 Split Tensile Strength Results.

28 day Strength Split Tensile Strength

Percentage of fibers
(MPa) (MPa)
3.76
No Fibers
2.8 3.28
4.36
1% Hooked End
3.98 4.17
4.6
1% Crimpled
4.24 4.42
3.86
0.5Hooked+0.5Crimpled
4.02 3.94
3.92
0.25Hooked+0.75Crimpled
4.1 4.01
3.7
0.25Crimpled+0.75Hooked
4.18 3.94

6.3 Flexural Strength Results:

The variation of Flexural strength of M20 grade of concrete with different combinations of
Steel Fibers (Crimpled & Hooked) is shown in Figure 4. The Flexural strength of M40 grade
of control concrete is 2.53 MPa. The Flexural strength of all the Steel Fiber (Hooked &
Crimped) Reinforced Concrete exhibits improved strength compared to Control Concrete. The
Concrete with 1% of Crimped Steel Fiber possesses higher Flexural Strength when compared
to all other combinations.

Table 6.3 Flexural Strength Results

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 Percentage of fibers 28days Flexural Strength
(MPa) (MPa)
2.8
No Fibers 2.4 2.53
2.4
3.6
1% Hooked End 3.6 3.87
4.4
4
1% Crimpled 4.4 4
3.6
3.6
0.5Hooked+0.5Crimpled 4 3.73
3.6
4
0.25Hooked+0.75Crimpled 3.6 4
4.4
3.6
0.25Crimpled+0.75Hooked 3.2 3.6
4

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 CHAPTER – 7
CONCLUSIONS

7.1 Conclusions

 The behaviour of the structural members under extreme loads is quite vital in some
applications in structural engineering industry. The development of new materials such
as steel fibre reinforced concrete has shown that these can be effective in structural
member performance. This study aims to investigate effect of steel fiber geometry on
mechanical properties of steel fiber reinforced concrete.
 Experimental investigation was carried out on the behaviour of steel fibre reinforced
concrete material using end hooked steel fiber and crimpled end with different
combinations of fibers by assuming 1% as the optimum dosage and plain concrete with
no fibers for comparison. Tests included the cube compression test, cylindrical
compression test, split tensile test and flexural test to evaluate the mechanical properties
of SFRC.
 The results showed that the use of fibers enhanced all aspects of material capacity
namely compression strength, tensile strength and flexural strength. The performance
of 1% crimpled fibers was the beast out of all concrete types while PC showed the
highest damage with the least capacity.
 Amongst all tests the performance of the specimens under split tensile test and flexural
test, which the tensile properties of the concrete are of importance, showed better
enhancement. This was due to the effect of fibers and bridging the cracks when concrete
starts to crack at its capacity. The presence of fibers increases the load capacity of the
samples and makes the concrete a more ductile material as opposed to a conventionally
known brittle material. The concrete with crimpled fibers offered much resistance
compared to the other combinations. This is because better interlocking than in hooked
end type fibers and other combinations. The combinations of Hooked and Crimpled
fibers also showed the better results in which the combination of 75% Crimpled and
25% Hooked is almost same as the crimpled fiber SFRC.
 Further investigation can be done by doing the same experimental investigation on
higher grades of concrete to design Ultrahigh Performance Concrete.

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 CHAPTER – 8
REFERENCES

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