Title:
Collated Fibrillated Polypropylene Fibers in FRC
Author(s):
Ronald F. Zollo
Publication:
Symposium Paper
Volume:
81
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
397-410
Keywords:
compressive strength; cracking (fracturing); fiber
reinforced concretes; flexural strength; impact strength-lout
tests; polypropylene fibers;
strength.
shrinkage; splitting tensile
DOI:
10.14359/6461
Date:
11/1/1984
Abstract:
Research and development regarding fiber reinforced materials (FRC) has evolved steadily with most notable progress having been made with the periodic introduction of new fiber types; including materials and form or shape. The attendant interest associated with new fibers has invariably led to an improved understanding of the mechanics of behavior of FRC and to new applications. The use of collated fibrillated polypropylene fibers (CFP) at low fiber volumes improves many aspects of the production and application of FRC including mixing and placement. Plastic state rheological and hardened state mechanical behavior are quite different from those properties which have been reported in the literature for FRC systems using rigid metallic or more brittle glass fibers and for which fiber volumes are normally about ten times the fiber volume of CFP fibers used in this research. A series of tests are designed to assess the basic properties of CFP fibrous concrete in both the plastic and hardened state. As much as possible these tests were conducted in accordance with recommended ASTM and ACI Committee 544 procedures including tests for compression, flexure, impact, split cylinder, and rebar pullout. Other specially designed tests include flexure of composite steel deck and concrete overlay specimens to affect the replacement of weld wire fabric in such applications, and shrinkage testing. Results indicate the benefit derived from the use of CFP fibers is significant as a secondary reinforcement and for crack control. A significant reduction in shrinkage is found and there are positive contributions in other strength performance areas.