Durability studies on high strength

concrete
Plain concrete possesses a very low tensile strength, limited ductility and little
resistance to cracking.
Internal micro cracks are inherently present in the concrete and its poor tensile
strength is due to the propagation of such micro cracks, eventually leading to brittle
fracture of the concrete.
It has been recognized that the addition of small, closely spaced and uniformly
dispersed fibers to the concrete would act as crack arrester and would substantially
improve its Compressive and flexural strength properties.

Review:
The concept of using fibers to improve the characteristics of construction materials
is very old.
Early applications include addition of straw to mud bricks, horse hair to reinforce
plaster and asbestos to reinforce pottery.
Use of continuous reinforcement in concrete (reinforced concrete) increases
strength and ductility, but requires careful placement and labour skill.
Alternatively, introduction of fibers in discrete form in plain or reinforced concrete
may provide a better solution.
The modern development of fiber reinforced concrete (FRC) started in the early
sixties

Steel Fibers
Straight, crimped, twisted, hooked, ringed, and paddled ends. Diameter range
from 0.25 to 0.76mm.

Advantages:
Increased tensile strength,flexural rigidity,toughness. More resistance
to first crack,corrosion.

Applications:
Refractories,pavements,overlays,patching,flooring,bridge decking,
caissons,car parks,pipes,poles,repairs of dams,machine bases frames,manhole
covers.

Durability Tests:
Sulphate resistance,acid resistance,permeability,chloride resistance
Date:10/21/2014

Signature of project guide