Journal Published Online: 01 March 2004
Volume 32, Issue 2

Toughness Characterization of Fiber-Reinforced Concrete: Which Standard to Use?

CODEN: JTEVAB

Abstract

The major advantage of fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC) over its plain counterpart is in its improved energy absorption capability, or ‘toughness.’ There are currently several standard test methods available to characterize the toughness of fiber-reinforced concrete, but little is known of the relationship between the toughness results they produce for a given fiber-reinforced concrete. An attempt is made here to compare the results produced by three of these techniques: ASTM C 1018, ASTM C 1399, and JSCE SF-4 for the same concrete and to assess the subjectivity encountered in toughness characterization. It was found that there is no firm and reliable correlation between these three procedures; they would rank different FRCs differently. Only a weak correlation exists between the toughness parameters generated by the C 1399 and the SF-4 standards, and the correlation is highly dependent on the fiber type. The ASTM C 1018 procedure is the least reliable of all and produces Toughness Indices and RM,N values that are very difficult to interpret.

Author Information

Banthia, N
The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Mindess, S
The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Pages: 5
Price: $25.00
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Details
Stock #: JTE11901
ISSN: 0090-3973
DOI: 10.1520/JTE11901