Title: Flexural Behavior of Thin Fber Reinforced and Ferrocement Sheets

Author(s): R. N. Swamy and M. W. Hussin

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 124

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 323-356

Keywords: composite materials; cracking (fracturing); deflection; ferrocement; fiberboard; flexural strength; glass fibers; metal fibers; polypropylene fibers; portland cements; reinforcing materials; welded wire fabric; Structural Research

Date: 9/1/1990

Abstract:
Presents comprehensive test data on the flexural strength, deflection, and cracking behavior of thin sheets of 6 to 13 mm thickness reinforced with a wide range of reinforcing elements. Two different sizes of sheets were generally tested under four-point loading, and in the case of glass fibers, a further small laboratory scale test specimen was also tested. Five different types of reinforcing elements were used: steel fibers, welded steel mesh without and with steel fibers, two types of woven polypropylene fabrics and glass fibers. The matrix was designed for durability and high workability with low water-binder ratio and a superplasticizer. In addition, 50 to 70 percent of the portland cement was replaced by fly ash. Extensive test data are presented and compared in terms of limit proportionality, modulus of rupture and cracking. It is shown that a wide range of reinforcement elements can be successfully used for thin sheet applications, and that the performance characteristics of thin sheets are very much a function of the type, geometry, and volume fraction of the reinforcement.