Study of the mechanical behavior of fiber-reinforced concrete through non-destructive testing

Mohammed-Amin Boumehraz; Farida  Boucetta; Achref  Hamaidia; Mekki  Mellas; Kamel  Goudjil

doi:10.62638/ZasMat1415

Authors

Mohammed-Amin Boumehraz Department of Civil Engineering, University of Jijel, Jijel, Algeria Author https://orcid.org/0009-0006-2965-4560
Farida Boucetta Laboratory of Physics of Thin Films and Applications, University of Biskra, Biskra, Algeria Author
Achref Hamaidia Department of Civil Engineering, Mohamed-Cherif Messaadia, University of Souk Ahras, Souk Ahras, Algeria Author
Mekki Mellas Laboratory of Research in Civil Engineering (LRGC), University of Biskra, Biskra, Algeria Author
Kamel Goudjil Laboratory INFRARES, Department of Civil Engineering, Mohamed-CherifMessaadia, University of Souk Ahras, Souk Ahras, Algeria Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.62638/ZasMat1415

Abstract

Several non-destructive mechanical tests can be used to assess the strength of concrete or mortar without crushing the specimens. In this study, prismatic specimens of glass fiber-reinforced concrete (GFRC) with different percentages (0%, 1%, 3%, and 5%) of ARHP-type glass fibers (high-performance alkali-resistant fibers) were used. Additionally, these GFRC specimens were exposed to different environments. A control series was kept in potable water, while the other series were maintained in seawater or a sulfate-rich environment. These specimens underwent mechanical and chemical tests. The results showed that adding fibers in proportions ranging from 1% to 5% slightly improved the density and strength of the concrete. However, immersing the GFRC specimens in a humid environment negatively affected the mechanical strength of the concrete, compromising its durability. Furthermore, it was observed that the carbonation depth was zero for all control specimens and those stored in seawater. Finally, the addition of 3% silica fume to the GFRC led to a slight improvement in strength but did not provide sufficient protection against the chemical degradation of fibers caused by alkaline or humid environments.

Keywords:

Non-destructive, ARHP fibers, seawater , Ultrasonic pulse velocity, XRF analysis

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