The proposed test method will help show how well material holds together under stress.
Jul 21, 2025
ASTM International is developing a proposed standard (WK73384) that will test how well fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC) and ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) hold together under stress. The proposed test method will help determine whether an FRC or UHPC mixture meets the required quality for its intended structural performance.
WK73384 is being developed by the fiber-reinforced concrete subcommittee (C09.42), part of ASTM’s concrete and concrete aggregates committee (C09).
According to ASTM member Shih-Ho (Simon) Chao, the proposed standard introduces a simple and effective method called the double-punch test, which helps measure tensile performance of FRC and UHPC. This test is easy to use, practical for routine quality control, and produces consistent, low-variability results.
The standard can serve as a practical tool for quality control, product qualification, and specification compliance. Government agencies including Departments of Transportation (DoTs), fiber manufacturers, FRC/UHPC suppliers, research and commercial laboratories, and regulatory bodies will find the proposed standard highly valuable.
“Tensile properties are especially important in fiber-reinforced concrete and ultra-high-performance concrete because they directly affect how structural elements made from these materials behave and ultimately fail,” says Chao, Department of Civil Engineering, University of Texas at Arlington. “To ensure consistent quality in FRC/UHPC mixes, it's important to measure these properties reliably.”
This effort directly relates to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal #9 on industry, innovation, and infrastructure and Goal #11 on sustainable cities and communities.
ASTM welcomes participation in the development of its standards. Become a member at www.astm.org/JOIN.
September / October 2025
