Effect of Steel Fiber Addition on the Flexural Strength of High-Performance Concrete Beams
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.69855/sipil.v2i2.898Keywords:
Steel Fiber, High-Performance Concrete, Flexural Strength, Beam, Ductility, Fiber Volume FractionAbstract
The inherent brittleness of high-performance concrete (HPC) limits its structural application despite superior compressive strength. Purpose: This study investigates the effect of steel fiber addition on the flexural strength of HPC beams through a comprehensive experimental program. Methods: Hooked-end steel fibers were incorporated at volume fractions of 0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, and 2.0%. A total of 60 beam specimens (100 mm × 100 mm × 400 mm) were tested under four-point bending at 28 days. Results: Flexural strength increased progressively with fiber content up to an optimum dosage, with the 1.5% fiber volume fraction achieving the maximum improvement of 45.6% compared to plain HPC. However, specimens with 2.0% fibers exhibited slight strength reduction due to fiber balling and poor dispersion. Load–deflection curves revealed a transition from brittle failure in plain HPC to ductile, deflection-hardening behavior in fiber-reinforced specimens. Conclusion: The study concludes that 1.5% hooked-end steel fiber content provides optimal flexural performance for HPC beams, offering a viable strategy for enhancing structural ductility and crack resistance.
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