The influences of matrix and steel fibre tensile strengths on the fracture energy of high-strength concrete

Abstract

Abstract This research discusses the effects of both steel fibre and matrix strengths on fracture energy of high-strength concrete. The variables of experimental study were water/cement ratio, steel fibre strength and steel fibre volume fraction. The water/cement ratios of 0.35, 0.45 and 0.55, and steel fibres with a tensile strengths of 1100 and 2000 MPa were used and volume fractions of steel fibre were 0.33%, 0.67% and 1%. Mechanical properties, fracture energy and characteristic length of concretes were investigated. Significant influences of matrix and fibre tensile strengths on the fracture energy and the characteristic length are noted.