Project Id - 11 PDF

Effect of Fibre Aspect Ratio on Tensile and Flexural Properties of Concrete.
Project Phase - I
Report on
“Project Title Effect of Fibre aspect ratio on the flexural and tensile
properties on concrete”
In partial fulfillment of requirements for Bachelor Degree in Civil Engineering
Submitted By
Mr. Bhushan Bhavsar (PRN No 71710692G )
Mr. Mrunal Marathe (PRN No 71711001L)
Mr. Rohan Patil (PRN No 71711099M)
Mr. Param Desai (PRN No 71612836F)
Guided By
Prof. Mr. S. B. Gorade
DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

PIMPRI CHINCHWAD COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
NIGDI , PUNE – 411044, INDIA
SAVITRIBAI PHULE PUNE UNIVERSITY, PUNE
(2019-2020)
PCCOE, Nigdi, Ac.Yr.2019-20 1 Department of Civil Engineering

PIMPRI CHINCHWAD COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING
(SAVITRIBAI PHULE PUNE UNIVERSITY, PUNE)
CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that the following students have satisfactorily carried out the first
semester B.E. project phase I work entitled
“Use of Effect of Fibre aspect ratio on the flexural and tensile properties on
concrete”
This work is being submitted for the award of degree of Bachelor of Civil Engineering. It
is submitted in partial fulfillment of the prescribed syllabus of Savitribai Phule Pune
University, Pune for the academic year 2019 – 2020.
Examination Seat No Name of the Student

71710692G Bhushan Rajendra Bhavsar
71711001L Mrunal Pravin Marathe
71711099M Rohan Pravin Patil
71612836F Param Rashmin Desai
Prof. S. B. Gorade
(Guide)
Dr. S. T. Mali Dr. N. B. Chopade

(HOD Civil) (I/C Principal)
External Examiner
____________________

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
It gives us great pleasure in presenting our project named “Effect of Fibre aspect
ratio on the flexural and tensile properties on concrete”
We take this opportunity to thank Prof. Mr. S. B. Gorade our Project guide
who has been a constant source of inspiration and also took a keen interest in each and
every step of the project development. We are grateful for their encouragement in
shaping the idea and valuable suggestions in making it a reality.
We take the opportunity to express our deep sense of gratitude to Dr. S. T. Mali
for the valuable guidance and for providing lab facilities as H.O.D of Civil Department
and also to all staff members who have helped us directly or indirectly.
We thank to our Principal, Dr. N. B. Chopade, who is always a constant source

of motivation for us.
Mr. B. R. Bhavsar
Mr. M. P. Marathe
Mr. R. P. Patil
Mr. P. R. Desai

ABSTRACT
Concrete is widely recognized as a cost effective, versatile construction material. But,

it is also covered with a number of drawbacks that are inherent to its composition. By
generally accepted engineering standards, concrete is relatively brittle and lags flexural
strength. Intertwined with these problems is concretes propensity to crack in both its
plastic and hardened state. The demand for high strength, crack resistant and lighter
concrete resulted in development of FRC. The introduction of FRC can provide a solution
to most of the above mentioned problems. Use of Fibre Reinforced Concrete has been
carried out on a large scale. The existing study on Fibre Reinforced Concrete explains the
study and properties of different types of fibres, volume of fibres to be used and aspect
ratio of the fibre.
The outcome of this study is to analyse and study the effect on the properties of fibres
with change in volume and change in aspect ratio and thus defining the best suitable
percentage of volume of fibres for each aspect ratio.

CONTENT
PAGE
CHAPTER TITLE
NO.
Certificate ii
Acknowledgement iii
Abstract iv
Content v
List of Tables vi
List of Figures vii
Declaration viii
1. Introduction 1
1.1 Introduction of Project Work 1
1.2 Problem Statement 2
1.3 Aim of Project Work 2
1.4 Objectives of Project Work 2
1.5 Scope of Project Work 2
1.6 Introduction to Fibre Reinforced Concrete 3
1.7 History of Reinforced Concrete 4
1.8 Types of Fibres 4
1.8.1 Glass Fibre Reinforced Concrete 4
1.8.2 Steel Fibre Reinforced Concrete 5
1.8.3 Polypropylene Fibre Reinforced Concrete 5
1.8.4 Carbon Fibres 5
1.8.5 Organic Fibres 6
1.8.6 Asbestos Fibres 6

1.9 Factors Affecting Properties of Fibre Reinforced Concrete 6

1.9.1 Relative Fibre Matrix Stiffness 6
1.9.2 Volume of Fibres 7
1.9.3 Aspect Ratio of Fibre 7
1.9.4 Orientation of Fibres 8
1.9.5 Workability and Compaction of Concrete 8
1.9.6 Size of Coarse Aggregate 8
1.9.7 Mixing 9
2. Literature Review 10
2.1 Introduction 10
2.2 Literature Review 10
2.3 Findings from Literature Review 15
3. Research Methodology 17
3.1 Planning Schedule/ Flow Chart 17
4. Material Selection 18
4.1 Types of Fibres 18
4.1.1 Carbon Fibre 18
4.1.2 Steel Fibre 18
4.1.3 Glass Fibre 18
4.1.4 Polypropylene Fibre 19
4.1.5 Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene 19
4.2 Steel Fibres 19
4.2.1 Tensile Strength 20
4.2.2 Specific Gravity 20
4.2.3 Young’s Modulus 20
4.2.4 Strain at Failure 20
4.2.5 Combination of Fibre Aspect Ratio and Percentage 21
5. Testing of Materials 22
5.1 Testing of Coarse and Fine Aggregate 22

5.1.1 Aggregate Testing Results 23

5.2 Testing of River Sand 24
5.2.1 Test Result for River Sand 25
6. Mix Design 27
7. Conclusion 31
8. Planning of Phase-2 32
References 33

List of Tables
Title Page
Table No.
No.
1 Comparison of Strength for FRC and Normal Concrete 7
2 Comparison of Fibre Properties 19
3 Comparison of Fibre Properties 20
4 Combination of Fibre Aspect Ratio and Percentage Used 21
5 Test Results for Aggregate (10mm) 23
5.1 Test Results for Aggregate (20mm) 24
6 Test Results for River Sand 25
7 Mix Proportion Table 30

List of Figures
Title Page
Fig. No.
No.
1 Sample Weighing of Oven Dried Aggregate 23
2 Sieve Analysis of Aggregate 23
3 Performing Specific Gravity Test on River Sand Using 25
Pycnometer
4 Sieve Analysis of Sand 26
5 Performing Specific Gravity 26
6 Oven Drying of Sand 26

DECLARATION
We, Mr. Bhushan Bhavsar, Mr. Mrunal Marathe, Mr. Rohan Patil and Mr. Param
Desai have completed our project phase-I report entitled “Effect of Fibre aspect ratio on
the flexural and tensile properties on concrete” in all respects. We hereby take full
responsibility for the results of the research work and hereby assure that the information
given is true to the best of our knowledge and belief. We hereby assure that this work is
free from plagiarism and wherever any previous research work is referenced, it is
mentioned in the text. We understand that any violation of the above will be cause for
disciplinary /penal action by Pimpri Chinchwad College of Engineering / Savitribai Phule
Pune University and from the sources which have thus not been properly cited or from
whom proper permission has not been taken when needed.
Mr. Bhushan Bhavsar (71710692G) Sign

Mr. Mrunal Marathe (71711001L) Sign
Mr. Rohan Patil (7171099M) Sign
Mr. Param Desai (71612836F) Sign
Date:

1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 Introduction
Concrete is a composite material composed of fine and coarse aggregate bonded

together with a cement paste that hardens over time. Concrete is a widely and most used
material for construction. It is also a very cost effective and versatile material used for
construction. But a few drawbacks such as early cracking behavior, being weak in flexure
and the mode of brittle failure has resulted in the development and use of materials to
improve the existing properties of concrete. Moreover, concrete is very weak in tension
and the mode of failure is brittle failure in concrete adds up to its disadvantages. Thus,
the development and use of Fibre Reinforced concrete ensures that the cracking happens
at a later stage and the post cracking behaviour of concrete is improved.
Fiber Reinforced Concrete can be defined as a composite material consisting of

mixtures of cement, mortar or concrete and discontinuous, discrete, uniformly dispersed
suitable fibers. Fiber reinforced concrete (FRC) is concrete containing fibrous material
which increases its structural integrity. It contains short discrete fibers that are uniformly
distributed and randomly oriented. Fibers include steel fibers, glass fibers, synthetic
fibers and natural fibers. Fibres are usually used in concrete to control plastic shrinkage
cracking and drying shrinkage cracking. They also lower the permeability of concrete and
thus reduce bleeding of water. Some types of fibres produce greater impact, abrasion and
shatter resistance in concrete.The amount of fibers added to a concrete mix is expressed
as a percentage of the total volume of the composite (concrete and fibers), termed
"volume fraction" (Vf). Vf typically ranges from 0.1 to 3%. The aspect ratio (l/d) is
calculated by dividing fiber length (l) by its diameter (d).
Thus the introduction of fibres in concrete would help in improving the existing
properties of concrete and would provide a better tensile and flexural strength. It will also

help in delaying the development and propagation of cracks in concrete, also improving
the post cracking behaviour of concrete.
The presence of micro cracks in the mortar-aggregate interface is responsible for the
inherent weakness of plain concrete. The weakness can be removed by inclusion of fibres
in the mixture. Different types of fibers, such as those used in traditional composite
materials can be introduced into the concrete mixture to increase its toughness, or ability
to resist crack growth. The fibres help to transfer loads at the internal micro cracks. Such
concrete is called fibre-reinforced concrete (FRC).
1.2 Problem statement

Concrete is widely recognized as a cost effective, versatile construction material.
But, it is also covered with a number of drawbacks that are inherent to its composition.
By generally accepted engineering standards, concrete is relatively brittle and lags
flexural strength. Intertwined with these problems is concrete propensity to crack in both
its plastic and hardened state. The demand for high strength, crack resistant and lighter
concrete resulted in development of FRC. The introduction of FRC can provide a solution
to most of the above mentioned problems.
1.3 Aim
The main aim of this study is to study the effect of fibre aspect ratio for different
volume percentages on different volume percentages on tensile and flexural properties of
fibre reinforced concrete.
1.4 Objectives
1) To study the properties of materials used for FRC .
2) To design a mix of casting and testing of samples.
3) To study the effect of aspect ratio on flexural and tensile strength of concrete.
4) To study the effect of volume change on flexural and tensile properties.

1.5 Scope of the Project Work
The current study shows the effects of different types of fibres and the properties of
the concrete with respect to either aspect ratio or volume of fibres alone. The objective of
this project is to provide a consensus as to which percentage of fibre is the best suitable
for each aspect ratio of concrete. Thus, this will help the user to choose an appropriate
percentage of fibres depending on the aspect ratio available. The current study limits only
to the effects of percentage of fibres and aspect ratio on the properties of fibres
reinforced concrete individually. In the construction market, since fibres are available
with different dimensions and the price is paid per kilogram of fibres, it is important to
select fibres with such dimensions which give maximum degree of performance for a
particular application. In this project, the effect of aspect ratio of commercially available
fibres and their dosage on the Flexural properties of FRC will be studied. We would be
thus varying the aspect ratio and the volume percentage of the fibres. This will help in
improving the tensile and flexural properties of the concrete. The study would also
enhance the post cracking behaviour of concrete, improving the resistance to cracking
and also enhancing properties of impact resistance, abrasion resistance, ductility and
strength.
1.6 Introduction to Fibre Reinforced Concrete (FRC)
Fiber reinforced concrete is a type of concrete that includes fibrous substances that
increase its structural strength and cohesion. Fiber reinforced concrete has small distinct
fibers that are homogeneously dispersed and oriented haphazardly. Fibers used are steel
fibers, synthetic fibers, glass fibers, and natural fibers. The characteristics of fiber
reinforced concrete are changed by the alteration of certain factors: type and quantity of
fibers, geometric configuration, dispersal, direction, and concentration. Portland cement
concrete is believed to be a comparatively brittle substance. When un-reinforced concrete
is exposed to tensile stresses, it is likely to fracture and fail. Since the beginning of the
nineteenth century, studies have been conducted to reinforce concrete by using steel.

After the reinforcement of concrete by steel, it becomes a composite group in which the
steel endures the tensile stresses. When concrete is reinforced by using fiber in the
mixture, it further increases the tensile strength of the composite system. Research has
revealed that the strength of concrete may be improved tremendously by the addition of
fiber reinforcing. Since the stretching ability under load of reinforcing fiber is greater
than concrete, initially the composite system will function as un-reinforced concrete.
However, with additional loading the fiber reinforcing will be activated, to hold the
concrete mix together.
The characteristics of concrete depend upon the:

● Type of fiber utilized
● Volume proportion of the fiber
● Ratio of length of the fiber
● Diameter of the fiber
● Dispersal, direction and concentration of fibers
1.7 History of Fibre Reinforced Concrete (FRC)

Fibers have been used for concrete reinforcement since prehistoric times though
technology has improved significantly, as is applicable for other fields. In the early age,
straw and mortar were used for producing mud bricks, and horsehair was used for their
reinforcement. As the fiber technology developed, cement was reinforced by asbestos
fibers in the early twentieth century. During the middle of the twentieth century,
extensive research was in progress for the use of composite materials for concrete
reinforcement. Later, the use of asbestos for concrete reinforcement was discouraged due
to the detection of health risks. New materials like steel, glass, and synthetic fibers
replaced asbestos for reinforcement. Active research is still in progress on this important
technology. Fiber Reinforced Concrete is considered to be one of the greatest
advancements in construction engineering during the twentieth century.

1.8 Types of Fibres

Materials used for fiber reinforcement include steel, glass, polyester, rayon,
cotton, and polythene. Most commonly used materials are: Steel (Steel Fiber Reinforced
Concrete) and Glass fibers (Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete or GFRC) that are acid
resisting. Natural fibers being vulnerable to alkali attack are not much popular.
Similarly, Plastic fibers have recently been introduced in the field of reinforcement and
are still in the development phase. It is considered that the contribution of plastic fibers in
increasing the static strength of concrete is limited. Nylon fibers have the characteristics
of a plastic material, and presently have a limited application in the slab technology. It is
generally believed that nylon fibers possess strength that is greater than the welded wire
fabric in such slabs.
1.8.1. Glass Fibre Reinforced Concrete

Glass fiber reinforced concrete has been successfully used since the last 25 years
for concrete reinforcement, in addition to steel. GFRC is being manufactured into big
panels with a simple configuration or into intricate shapes by using special techniques.
Originally, GFRC components were anchored directly with the buildings by the use of
metal studs. It was revealed that GFRC shifts considerably due to which the direct
anchors are being replaced by slip anchors. Several structures use GFRC for dissimilar
facing like ceramic tiles, bricks, and architectural purposes.
1.8.2. Steel Fibre Reinforced Concrete

Steel fiber reinforced concrete is a composite material that can be sprayed. It
consists of hydraulic cements with steel fibers that are dispersed randomly and possess a
rectangular cross-section. The steel fibers reinforced concrete by withstanding tensile
cracking. The flexural strength of fiber reinforced concrete is greater than the
un-reinforced concrete. Reinforcement of concrete by steel fibers is isotropic in nature
that improves the resistance to fracture, disintegration, and fatigue. Steel fiber reinforced
concrete is able to withstand light and heavy loads.

1.8.3. Polypropylene Fibre Reinforced Concrete

Polypropylene is one of the cheapest & abundantly available polymers
polypropylene fibers are resistant to most chemicals & it would be a cementitious matrix
which would deteriorate first under aggressive chemical attack. Its melting point is high
(about 165 degrees centigrade). So that a working temp. As (100 degree centigrade) may
be sustained for short periods without detriment to fiber properties.
Polypropylene fibers being hydrophobic can be easily mixed as they do not need
lengthy contact during mixing and only need to be evenly distressed in the mix.
Polypropylene short fibers in small volume fractions between 0.5 to 15 commercially
used in concrete.
1.8.4. Carbon Fibers

These fibers have been recently used due to their very high modulus of elasticity
and flexural strength. Characteristics such as strength and stiffness are better than those
of steel fibers, although they are more susceptible to damage. These are expansive. Their
strength & stiffness characteristics have been found to be superior even to those of steel.
But they are more vulnerable to damage than even glass fiber, and hence are generally
treated with resin coating.
1.8.5. Organic Fibers

Organic fibers such as polypropylene or natural fiber may be chemically more
inert than either steel or glass fibers. They are also cheaper, especially if natural. A large
volume of vegetable fiber may be used to obtain a multiple cracking composite. The
problem of mixing and uniform dispersion may be solved by adding a superplasticizer.
1.8.6 Asbestos Fibre

The naturally available inexpensive mineral fiber, asbestos, has been successfully
combined with Portland cement paste to form a widely used product called asbestos
cement. Asbestos fibers here thermal mechanical & chemical resistance making them
suitable for sheet product pipes, tiles and corrugated roofing elements. Asbestos cement

board is approximately two or four times that of an unreinforced matrix. However, due to
the relatively short length (10mm) the fiber has low impact strength.
1.9 Factors Affecting Properties of Fibre Reinforced Concrete (FRC)

Fiber reinforced concrete is a composite material containing fibers in the cement
matrix in an orderly manner or randomly distributed manner. Its properties would
obviously depend upon the efficient transfer of stress between the matrix and the fibers.
The factors are briefly discussed below:
1.9.1 Relative Fibre Matrix Stiffness
The modulus of elasticity of the matrix must be much lower than that of fiber for
efficient stress transfer. Low modulus of fiber such as nylons and polypropylene are,
therefore, unlikely to give strength improvement, but they help in the absorption of large
energy and therefore, impart greater degree of toughness and resistance to impart. High
modulus fibers such as steel, glass and carbon impart strength and stiffness to the
composite.
Interfacial bonds between the matrix and the fiber also determine the
effectiveness of stress transfer from the matrix to the fiber. A good bond is essential for
improving tensile strength of the composite.
1.9.2 Volume of Fibres

The strength of the composite largely depends on the quantity of fibers used in it.
Fig 1 and 2 show the effect of volume on the toughness and strength. It can see from Fig
1 that the increase in the volume of fibers increases approximately linearly, the tensile
strength and toughness of the composite. Use of a higher percentage of fiber is likely to
cause segregation and harshness of concrete and mortar.
1.9.3 Aspect Ratio of the Fiber

Another important factor which influences the properties and behavior of the
composite is the aspect ratio of the fiber. It has been reported that up to aspect ratio of 75,
increase on the aspect ratio increases the ultimate concrete linearly. Beyond 75, relative
strength and toughness is reduced. Table-1 shows the effect of aspect ratio on strength
and toughness.
Table 1: Comparison of Strength for FRC and Normal Concrete
Type of Concrete Aspect Ratio Relative Strength Relative Toughness
0 1 1
Plain Concrete 25 1.5 2.0

with randomly
Dispersed fibers 50 1.6 8.0
75 1.7 10.5
100 1.5 8.5
1.9.4 Orientation of Fibers

One of the differences between conventional reinforcement and fiber
reinforcement is that in conventional reinforcement, bars are oriented in the direction
desired while fibers are randomly oriented. To see the effect of randomness, mortar
specimens reinforced with 0.5% volume of fibers were tested. In one set specimens,
fibers were aligned in the direction of the load, in another in the direction perpendicular
to that of the load, and in the third randomly distributed.
It was observed that the fibers aligned parallel to the applied load offered more
tensile strength and toughness than randomly distributed or perpendicular fibers.
1.9.5 Workability and Compaction of Concrete
Incorporation of steel fiber decreases the workability considerably. This situation
adversely affects the consolidation of fresh mix. Even prolonged external vibration fails

to compact the concrete. The fiber volume at which this situation is reached depends on
the length and diameter of the fiber.
Another consequence of poor workability is non-uniform distribution of the
fibers. Generally, the workability and compaction standard of the mix is improved
through increased water/ cement ratio or by the use of some kind of water reducing
admixtures.
1.9.6 Size of Coarse Aggregate

Maximum size of coarse aggregate should be restricted to 10mm, to avoid
appreciable reduction in strength of the composite. Fibers also in effect, act as aggregate.
Although they have a simple geometry, their influence on the properties of fresh concrete
is complex. The inter-particle friction between fibers and between fibers and aggregates
controls the orientation and distribution of the fibers and consequently the properties of
the composite. Friction reducing admixtures and admixtures that improve the
cohesiveness of the mix can significantly improve the mix.
1.9.7 Mixing
Mixing of fiber reinforced concrete needs careful conditions to avoid balling of
fibers, segregation and in general the difficulty of mixing the materials uniformly.
Increase in the aspect ratio, volume percentage and size and quantity of coarse aggregate
intensify the difficulties and balling tendency. Steel fiber content in excess of 2% by
volume and aspect ratio of more than 100 are difficult to mix.
It is important that the fibers are dispersed uniformly throughout the mix; this can
be done by the addition of the fibers before the water is added. When mixing in a
laboratory mixer, introducing the fibers through a wire mesh basket will help even
distribution of fibers. For field use, other suitable methods must be adopted.

2. LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Introduction
This chapter deals with the study of properties of concrete with the introduction of
fibres. Initially, not much data was available on fibre reinforced concrete but recently a
lot of study and advancements are made in the domain. Here we studied the different
types of artificial fibres and the factors affecting the strength of concrete. This study also
helped us finalize the percentage and aspect ratio of fibre to be introduced in our mix. We
also studied the Glass, Steel and Carbon fibre properties and effect on the concrete mix.
The study also helped us know the various problems that are being solved by the
introduction of fibres in concrete. The literature review also helped us know the design
steps, guidelines for Mix Design.
2.2 Literature review

Jianming Gao [1] et.al. has given basic information on the mechanical properties
of steel fiber-reinforced, high-strength, lightweight concrete with compressive and
flexural strengths up to 85.4 MPa and 11.8 MPa, respectively. The influence of steel fiber
on modulus of elasticity and Poisson’s ratio of concrete are investigated, and flexural
fracture toughness is calculated. Test results show that the effect of fiber volume fraction
and aspect ratio on flexural strength and fracture toughness is extremely prominent,
compressive strength is only slightly improved, and tensilefcom- pressive strength ratio is
obviously enhanced. It is observed that the flexural deflection corresponding to ultimate
load increased with the increase of V and I, and due to fiber arresting cracking, the shape
of the descending branch of load-deflection tends towards gently.
Karththekeyan T [2] et.al. Their study says that concrete is weak in tension, in
order to overcome this, normally reinforcements are used in construction. But these
reinforcements won't be able to stop initiating tensile cracks and other defects in
concrete. Aim of this study is to find the optimum volumetric percentage of steel fibre
required to increase the tensile strength of concrete with laboratory experiments. For that,

seven groups of grade 30 concrete were produced with the addition of steel fibres at
different volumetric percentages: 0% (as a control specimen), 0.77%, 0.86%, 0.93%,
1.00%, 1.07% and 1.47% by absolute weight of concrete. Steel fibres with aspect ratio,
l/d = 80 with 0.75 mm diameter and hooked at both ends, were used in this study. The
effects of adding Steel fibres in concrete were measured for the cube compressive
strength and splitting tensile strength. Result data clearly shows higher percentage
increase in 7 and 28 days compressive strength and tensile strength for 0.86% steel fibres
added concrete.
Y. Mohammadi [3] et.al. presents results of an investigation conducted to study

the impact resistance of steel bre reinforced concrete containing bres of mixed aspect
ratio. An experimental investigation was planned in which 108 plain concrete and SFRC
beam specimens of size 100×100×500 mm were tested under impact loading. The
specimen incorporated three diﬀerent volume fractions i.e. 1.0%, 1.5% and 2.0% of
corrugated steel bres. Each volume fraction incorporated mixed steel bres of size
0.6×2.0×25 mm and 0.6×2.0×50 mm in diﬀerent proportions. The drop weight type
impact tests were conducted on the test specimens and the number of blows of the
hammer required to induce rst visible crack and ultimate failure of the specimen were
recorded. The results are presented in terms of the number of blows required as well as
impact energy at rst crack and ultimate failure. It has been observed that concrete
containing 100% long bres at 2.0% volume fraction gave the best performance under
impact loading.
Rashid Hameed [4] et.al. proposed paper which says that since many decades
efforts have been made to reduce the brittleness of cementitious materials by the use of
micro and macro fibers of different mechanical, geometrical and physical properties. This
contribution presents the results of an experimental investigation carried out to study the
effect of fiber aspect ratio on the flexural properties of metallic fiber reinforced concrete
(MFRC). The flexural properties, which have been studied, include maximum load
bearing capacity (peak load), post-crack strength and flexural toughness. High

performance metallic fibers of different aspect ratios were used. The dosage of fibers was
kept 20 kg/m3 (0.25% by volume fraction) for all the fibered concrete mixtures. Three
point bending tests were performed on both control (without fibers) and fibered notched
prismatic concrete specimens of cross section 100×100mm and clear span of 450mm.
The results showed that the flexural properties of concrete matrix are significantly
improved by the addition of high performance metallic fibers. Moreover, it was found
that the level of improvement in flexural properties of MFRC varies with the aspect ratio
of fibers. Out of the two different aspect ratios of metallic fibers used in this study, the
fibers with larger aspect ratio showed better efficiency in improving the flexural response
of MFRC. Conclusion of this experiment says that maximum load bearing capacity (Peak
load), residual flexural strength and flexural toughness unreinforced matrix are
significantly increased by addition of metallic fibres and for a given content fibres with
larger aspect ratio showed better efficiency in increasing the load bearing capacity.
R.S. Olivito [5] et.al. discusses steel ber reinforced concrete mechanical static
behaviour and with its classication with respect to bers content and mix-design
variations. A number of experimental tests were conducted to investigate uniaxial
compressive strength and tensile strength. Different mixtures were prepared varying both
mix-design and ber length. Fibers content in volume was of 1% and 2%. Mechanical
characterization was performed by means of uniaxial compression tests with the aim of
deriving the ultimate compressive strength of ber concrete. Four-point bending tests on
notched specimens were carried out to derive the rst crack strength and the ductility
indexes. The tensile strength of steel ber reinforced concrete (SFRC) was obtained both
from an experimental procedure and by using an analytical modelling. The experimental
tests showed the different behaviour of SFRC with respect to the different ber content
and length. Based on the experimental results, an analytical model, reported in literature
and used for the theoretical determination of direct tensile strength, was applied with the
aim of making a comparison with experimental results. The comparison showed good
overall agreement.

D. V. Soulioti [6] et.al. aims in studying the mechanical behaviour of concrete,

reinforced with steel bres of different geometry and volume fraction. Experiments
include compression tests and four point bending tests. Slump and air content tests were
performed on fresh concrete. The exural toughness, exural strength and residual
strength factors of the beam specimens were evaluated in accordance with ASTM
C1609/C1609M-05 standard. Improvement in the mechanical properties, in particular the
toughness, was observed with the increase of the volume fraction of steel-bres in the
concrete. The bre geometry was found to be a key factor affecting the mechanical
performance of the material.The slump in bre reinforced mixtures ranged between 50
and 75 mm, while the slump of the plain concrete was 140 mm, which indicates a
reduction higher than 50%. Plain concrete specimens failed catastrophically by a single
crack, and separation into two pieces. On the contrary, the bre-reinforced concrete
specimens, even those with small bre volume fraction (0.5%), retained post-cracking
ability to carry out loads.
Mohammad Jamshidi [7] et.al. This paper gives knowledge to investigate the
influence of volume fraction and aspect ratio of steel fibers on the basic engineering
properties of hybrid steel fiber reinforced concrete. To this end, steel fiber reinforced
concrete composites, composed of different combinations of fiber volume fraction and
fiber size/shape, are experimentally tested and compared in terms of compressive,
splitting tensile strength and flexural toughness by four-point bending tests. The results
indicate that both micro and macro size steel fibers generally improve various
engineering properties of concrete, despite the advantages of one on the other for
different mechanical properties. Straightforward relations are proposed relating the
significant mechanical properties of hybrid steel FRC to the volume fraction of micro and
macro steel fibers in the composite. The test results led to the conclusion that the
addition of steel bres in the concrete mixture reduced the slump in the range of 65–90
mm, compared to plain concrete also the concrete mixtures with waved bres exhibited
higher compressive strengths than concrete mixtures with hooked-ended bres.

Ganta Mounika (2016) [8] et. al. they have concluded the results for compressive
tests are With increase of fibre content to 1% of cement content the compressive strength
increased by 29%, 18% for M20 and M30 respectively and workability is decreased
correspondingly and With increase of fibre content to 3% of cement content the
compressive strength increased by 51%, 30% for M20 and M30 respectively and
workability is decreased correspondingly. The split tensile test results are With 1%
increase of fibre content the split tensile strength increased by 39%, 23% for M20 and
M30 and workability is decreased and With 3% increase of fibre content the split tensile
strength increased by 74%, 31% for M20 and M30 and workability is decreased.
T Sai Kiran [9] et.al. they carried out an experiment on glass fibres which say that
glass fiber reinforced concrete at various ages (1, 3, 7, 28 and 56 days) and at various
percentages (5, 6 and 7%) glass fiber by weight of cement. The following points were
concluded i.e. it is observed that out of three trials of 5%, 6% and 7% of glass fiber,
addition of 7% of glass fiber resulted in the maximum increase of compressive strength.
However, there is not much change in the compressive strength with change of glass fiber
percentage. It is observed that out of three trials of 5%, 6% and 7% of glass fiber,
addition of 6% of glass fiber resulted in the maximum increase of split tensile strength. It
is observed that in three trials that is 5%, 6% and 7% of glass fiber, the split tensile
strength of the glass fiber reinforced concrete is about 9% to 10% against conventional
concrete is 8% to 12%. Overall it is observed that the addition of 6% of glass fiber
resulted in the maximum increase of compressive and split tensile strength properties of
concrete.
Ali Ghiami Bajgirani [10] et.al. shows that structural behavior of steel fiber
reinforced concrete members depends on different parameters such as aspect ratio of
fiber, the geometrical shape of fiber and placement of fiber in concrete. This article deals
with the effect of aspect ratio of steel fibers on resistance characteristics in fiber
reinforced concrete such as concrete workability, compressive strength, tensile strength
and resistance against impact by considering that steel fibers length were 3.5, 6.5 and 8

cm at 1% weight of cement. Results indicate that the uses of steel fibers don't have a
specific effect on compressive strength of concrete but it has a significant increase in its
tensile strength and toughness. Also by increasing the aspect ratio of fiber slump will be
decreased. Steel fibers will improve impact resistance, and reduce crack expansion. We
can conclude that when the aspect ratio of fibers is low, it doesn’t have any effect on
workability but when the change in aspect ratio is too high, the slump will be
decreased.Using fibers enhance the ductility of plain concrete and increase the area under
the strain-stress curve. As the aspect ratio of fibers increases, the toughness of concrete
becomes higher. The figures of compressive, tensile and impact specimens after the
fracture indicate that using Steel fibers increase the integration of concrete after the
fracture and prevent brittle fracture in regards to that fibers with more length are more
effective. Using fibers doesn’t have significant changes in the compressive strength of
concrete. In general, the maximum tolerated compressive strength of plain concrete and
fiber reinforced concrete is about the same. Steel fibers cause a sharp rise in tensile
strength of plain concrete which by increasing the aspect ratio of the fiber, tensile
strength advances. Steel fibers increase the first crack strength but the length of fibers is
non-effective on this issue. As the aspect ratio of steel fibers extends, rupture strength
will be increased. The volume of the steel fibers and their aspect ratio are the important
factors in function of fiber reinforced concrete under bending. Using fibers for
improving fatigue behavior of concrete is one of the primary uses of fibers. The
important effect of the usage of steel fibers is to increase the ductility of concrete. Using
fibers causes an increase in strain relating to maximum stress.
A.M. Shende [11] et.al. shows that for M-40 grade of concrete having mix
proportion 1:1.43:3.04 with water cement ratio 0.35 to study the compressive strength,
flexural strength, Split tensile strength of steel fibre reinforced concrete (SFRC)
containing fibers of 0%, 1%, 2% and 3% volume fraction, steel fibers of 50, 60 and 67
aspect ratio were used. A result data obtained has been analyzed and compared with a
control specimen (0% fiber). A relationship between Aspect ratio vs. Compressive
strength, aspect ratio vs. flexural strength, Aspect ratio vs. Split tensile strength

represented graphically. Result data clearly shows percentage increase in 28 days

Compressive strength, Flexural strength and Split Tensile strength for M-40 Grade of
Concrete.
2.3 Findings from Literature Review

1. Addition of steel fibres reduces the workability of the fresh concrete mix.
2. Change in splitting tensile strength with the addition of steel fibres is highly
significant compared to the plain concrete strength.
3. Change in Compressive strength with the addition of steel fibres is insignificant
compared to plain concrete strength.
4. Factors affecting split tensile strength are fibre geometry (aspect ratio), fibre
volume, type of fibre and water-cement ratio.
5. Along with compressive strength and split tensile it is better to take account of
flexural strength of different mixes.
6. The percentage increase in flexural strength of glass fibre is observed to be 130%
when compared with ordinary plain concrete.
7. Fibres in length equal to three times the Dmax (Max. size of coarse aggregate)
and 2 times the Dmax were used. The results obtained showed that despite the
less number of fibres for a given quantity, fibres of length three times Dmax are
more efficient than fibres of length two times the Dmax.
8. At 2mm deflection, residual flexural strength of mix containing fibres of aspect
ratio 125 was 4.5 times higher than the standard value and with the mix
containing fibres of aspect ratio 105, was 2.5 times higher as compared to
standard mix.
9. It is observed that compressive strength, split tensile strength and flexural strength
are on the higher side for 3% fibres as compared to that produced from 0%, 1%
and 2% fibres.
10. The split tensile strength increases from 3 to 41% with addition of steel fibres.

3. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1 Planning Schedule/flow chart

4. MATERIAL SELECTION
The materials included in the Fibre Reinforced Concrete are Fibres, Aggregates-
Coarse and Fine, Sand and Cement. The study for material selection includes properties
study, availability, cost, etc.
4.1. Types of Fibres
The study of fibres include understanding the types of fibres, properties of each
fibre type, availability of fibre, cost of fibre, etc.
The literature review helped us understand the different types of fibres that
included Steel fibres, Glass fibres, Polypropylene fibres, Organic fibres, etc. Depending
upon the previous study, we decided to work with Artificial Fibres. The basic criteria for
selection revolves around cost of fibre, availability of fibres and tensile strength of fibre.
4.1.1. Carbon Fibre
Studies indicate that Carbon fibre has the most tensile strength and is very light in
weight. Thus, the strength to weight ratio of carbon fibre is very high. After conducting
market survey and research, the cost of carbon fibres was very high and thus commercial
use of carbon fibre is difficult as it increases the overall cost of the structure. Also, the
availability of carbon fibre is difficult. It is easier to avail carbon fibre mats but the Indian
market lacks the availability of the carbon fibres. Thus, due to the following reasons, we
eliminated the use of carbon fibre.
4.1.2. Steel Fibre
Studies indicate that steel fibres are widely used in the construction industry due
to its various properties that include moderate cost, easy availability, good tensile
strength. It shows that steel fibres have good tensile strength, low as compared to carbon
but it has the advantages of ease in availability and comparatively low cost. Also, the
casting for steel fibre reinforced concrete is easy as compared to glass fibre reinforced
concrete. Thus, we decided to use steel fibres.

4.1.3. Glass Fibre

Glass fibres have also been extensively used in the construction industry because
of its good tensile strength and low cost. The drawback with glass fibres is primarily
availability. Also, the casting of glass fibre reinforced is difficult as there are chances of
fibre entering one's eyes, hands, etc. Thus, the use of glass fibre was eliminated.
4.1.4. Polypropylene Fibre
The study of polypropylene fibres indicates that the tensile strength is very low
and thus the Fibre reinforced concrete casted with polypropylene fibres has a low tensile
strength gain. Thus, the use of polypropylene fibres was also eliminated.
4.1.5. Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene also known as ABS plastic is a widely used
material in manufacturing 3-D printed structures. But the study shows that the tensile
property of Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene is very low. Thus, the use of Acrylonitrile
Butadiene Styrene was eliminated.
Table 2: Comparison of Fibres
Type of fibre Availability Cost effective Tensile

strength
in MPa
Steel fibre Locally Available Moderate Cost 1270
Carbon Fibre Not easily available Very High Cost 4127
Polypropylene Locally Available Low Cost 19.7-80
Glass fibre Locally Available High Cost 3445
Acrylonitrile Locally Available Low Cost 29.6

Butadiene Styrene

4.2. Steel Fibres

After selection of the fibre as steel fibre, the detailed study on the properties of
steel fibre were studied.
4.2.1. Tensile Strength
Tensile strength is the capacity of a material or structure to withstand loads
tending to elongate, as opposed to compressive strength, which withstands loads tending
to reduce size.The tensile strength of steel fibre is very high. It is about 1270 MPa. Thus,
the concrete reinforced with steel fibres, would showcase a high tensile and flexural
strength.
4.2.2. Specific Gravity
Specific gravity, also called relative density, is the ratio of the density of a
substance to the density of a reference substance; equivalently, it is the ratio of the mass
of a substance to the mass of a reference substance for the same given volume. The
specific gravity of steel fibres is about 7.80.
4.2.3. Young's Modulus
Young's modulus, or the Young modulus, is a mechanical property that measures
the stiffness of a solid material. It defines the relationship between stress (force per unit
area) and strain (proportional deformation) in a material in the linear elasticity regime of
a uniaxial deformation. The Young’s modulus for steel fibres is about 200.
4.2.4. Strain at failure
Strain is a measure of deformation representing the displacement between
particles in the body relative to a reference length. The strain at failure for steel fibre is
about 3.5%.

Table 3: Comparison of Fibre Properties
Type of fibre Steel fibre Carbon fibre Polypropylene Glass fibre
Tensile 1270 MPa 4127 MPa 19.7-80 MPa 3445 Mpa

Strength
Specific 7.80 1.90 0.90 2.50-2.70

Gravity
Young’s 200 200-380 5 72

Modulus
Strain at 3.5 1-1.5 18 4.8

Failure%
4.2.5 Combination of Fibre Aspect Ratio and Percentage

Table 4: Combination of Fibre Aspect Ratio & Percentage Used
↓ Aspect ratio Vs Percentage → 80 65 45
0.75% 3 3 3
1% 3 3 3
1.25% 3 3 3
Thus, based on study, we would be using Dramix Steel fibres manufactured by Bekart
with different aspect ratios and varying percentages.

Fig 1: Sponsorship Request Letter to Bekaert Wire Industries Pvt. Ltd.

Fig 2: Fibres of Aspect Ratio 65 Fig 3: Fibres of Aspect Ratio 80
Fig 4: Fibres of Aspect Ratio 45

5. TESTING OF MATERIALS
5.1 Introduction
Construction materials testing (CMT) is a vital process that helps builders and site
owners identify potential problems before committing resources to the project. Testing is
also essential for keeping the structure in line with applicable legal requirements,
including occupational safety and environmental regulations. As an integrated
environmental consulting and management firm, ATC Group Services offers
comprehensive materials testing solutions that include field examinations, laboratory tests
and special inspections.
In the construction industry, the term “materials testing” can refer to the evaluation of
almost any kind of building material that impacts the project at hand. This includes
aspects of the local terrain, including soil quality and composition, as well as potential
impact on nearby structures.The testing process is important because it allows inspectors
and builders to identify faults before an actual stress test, where personal and
environmental safety is at risk. Even detailed inspections aren’t completely foolproof, but
they are still extremely cost-effective and helpful throughout the construction process.
Materials testing helps avoid expensive repair or renovation work to correct faults and
mitigate risks to other people and property. Various inspections and proof of materials
quality is also required by law depending on the location and type of structure.
5.2 Testing of Coarse & Fine Aggregate

Aggregate is the essential construction material and plays an important role in
construction. Aggregate is an inert material which means that it does not take part in any
chemical reaction in the concrete. It contains 70 to 80 % volume of the concrete. Hence,
if you want to know about the concrete, it is essential to know about aggregates, which
constitutes a major volume of the same. Also, the aggregate is the prime material of the

pavement construction because the major portion of the pavement is made up of

aggregate.
Aggregates influence, to a greater extent, the load transfer capability of pavements

and slabs. Therefore, before using for construction, it is necessary that they should be
completely tested. Not only the aggregates should be strong and durable, but should also
have proper shape and size to make the element slab or pavement act monolithically.
Hence, it is important to perform the test on aggregates to ensure the quality of
aggregates and check the properties of aggregate.
● Specific Gravity
● Apparent Specific Gravity
● Water Absorption
● Grading
Fig 5: Sample Weighing of Oven Fig 6: Sieve Analysis of Aggregate

Dried Aggregate

5.2.1 Aggregate Testing Results:
Table 5: Test Result for Aggregate(10mm)
Sr. no. Name of test Test result
1. Specific gravity 2.93
2. Apparent specific gravity 2.99
3. Water absorption 0.75%
Table 5.1: Test Result for Aggregate(20mm)
Sr. no. Name of test Test result
1. Specific gravity 2.59
2. Apparent specific gravity 2.70
3. Water absorption 1.47%
5.3 Testing of River Sand

There are different methods for testing sand quality at construction sites for concrete
construction. Quality of sand is as much of importance as other materials for concrete.
Aggregate most of which pass through 4.75 mm IS sieve is known as fine aggregate. Fine
aggregate shall consist of natural sand, crushed stone sand, crushed gravel sand stone
dust or arable dust, fly ash and broken brick (burnt clay).
1. Specific Gravity
2. Grading- Sieve Analysis
5.3.1 Test Result for River Sand

Table 6: Test Result for River Sand
Sr. no. Name of test Test result Method used
1. Specific gravity 2.47 Pycnometer
2. Grading of sand Zone II Sieve analysis
Fig 7: Performing Specific Gravity Test Fig 8: Sieve Analysis of Sand

on River Sand Using Pycnometer

Fig 9: Performing Specific Gravity Test on CA Fig 10: Oven Drying of Sand

6. MIX DESIGN:
A-1 STIPULATIONS FOR PROPORTIONING

a) Grade designation :M 30
b) Type of cement :OPC 53 grade conforming to IS 8112
c) Maximum nominal size of aggregate :20mm
d) Minimum cement content :320 kg/m3
e) Maximum water-cement ratio : 0.45
f) Workability :100mm slump
g) Exposure condition :Severe (for reinforced concrete)
h) Method of concrete placing :Pumping
j) Degree of supervision :Good
k) Type of aggregate :Crushed angular aggregate
m) Maximum cement content :450 kg/m3
n) Chemical admixture type :Superplasticizer
A-2 TEST DATA FOR MATERIALS
a) Cement used :OPC 53 grade conforming to IS 8112
b) Specific gravity of cement :3.15
c) Chemical admixture :Superplasticizer conforming to IS
9103
d) Specific gravity of:
I) Coarse aggregate :2.59
2) Fine aggregate :2.93
e) Water absorption:
I) Coarse aggregate :1.47%
2) Fine aggregate :0.75%
f) Free (surface) moisture:
1) Coarse aggregate :Nil

2) Fine aggregate :Nil
g) Fine aggregate :Conforming to grading Zone I of

Table no. 4 of IS 383
A-3 TARGET STRENGTH FOR MIX PROPORTIONING

f'ck =fck + 1.65 (s)
where f'ck = target average compressive strength at 28 days,
fck = characteristic compressive strength at 28 days,
s = standard deviation.
From Table I, standard deviation, s =5 Mpa
Therefore, target strength =30 + 1.65 × 5
=38.25 Mpa
A·4 SELECTION OF WATER-CEMENT RATIO
Adopt water cement ratio = 0.45
A-5 SELECTION OF WATER CONTENT
From Table 2, maximum water content =186 litre (for 25 to 50 mm slump range)
for 20 mm aggregate
Estimated water content for 100 mm slump =186+ 0.06 × 186
=197 litre
As superplasticizer is used, the water content can be reduced up to 20 percent and above.
Based on trials with superplasticizer water content reduction of 29 percent has been
achieved. Hence, the arrived water content =197 × 0.71
=140 litre
A-6 CALCULATION OF CEMENT CONTENT
Water-cement ratio = 0.45
Cement content = 140/ 0.45=311.11=312 kg (approx)
From Table 5 of IS 456, minimum cement content for 'severe' exposure condition = 320
kg/m3

cement content =320 kg/m3
A-7 PROPORTION OF VOLUME OF COARSE AGGREGATE AND FINE

AGGREGATE CONTENT
From Table 3. volume of coarse aggregate corresponding to 20 mm size aggregate and
fine aggregate (Zone I) for water-cement ratio of 0.50 =0.60.
In the present case water-cement ratio is 0.45
Therefore volume of coarse aggregate is required to be increased to decrease the fine
aggregate content. As the water-cement ratio is lower by 0.05. the proportion of volume
of coarse aggregate is increased by 0.01 (at the rate of -/+ 0.01 for every ± 0.05 change in
water-cement ratio). Therefore corrected proportion of volume of coarse aggregate for the
water-cement ratio of 0.45 = 0.61
For pumpable concrete these values should be reduced by 10 percent.
Therefore, volume of coarse aggregate = 0.61 × 0.9 = 0.55
Volume of fine aggregate content =1 - 0.55 =0.45
A-8 MIX CALCULATIONS

The mix calculations per unit volume of concrete shall be as follows:
a) Volume of concrete : 1 m3
b) Volume of cement : Mass of cement/Specific gravity of cement × 1/1000
= 320/3.15 × 1/1000
= 0.101 m3
c) Volume of water : Mass of water/ Specific gravity of water × 1/1000
= 140/1 × 1/1000
= 0.140 m3
d) Volume of chemical admixture (superplasticizer)
(@ 2.0 percent by mass of cementitious material) : Mass of chemical
admixture/Specific gravity × 1/1000
=6.4/1.145 × 1/1000

= 0.0058 m3
e) Volume of all in aggregate = [a- (b +c +d)]

= 1- (0.101+0.140+0.0058) = 0.753 m3
f) Mass of coarse aggregate = e × Volume of coarse aggregate × Specific gravity of
coarse agg x1000
= 0.753 × 0.55 × 2.59 × 1000
= 1072.64 kg
g) Mass of fine agg = e × volume of fine aggregate × Specific gravity of fine aggregate
× 1000
= 0.753 × 0.45 × 2.93 × 1000
= 992.83 kg
A-9 MIX PROPORTIONS
Cement : 320 kg/m3
Water : 140 kg/m3
Fine aggregate : 992.83 kg
Coarse aggregate : 1072.64 kg
Chemical admixture : 6.4 kg
Water cement ratio : 0.45

Table 7: Mix Proportion Table
Sr No Fibre W/C Mix Proportion for 1 m3 Concrete

% Ratio
Cement Fibre Sand Aggregate Water
(Kg) (Kg) (Kg) (Kg) (Kg)
1 0.00 0.45 320 0 992.83 1072.64 140
2 0.75 0.45 317.6 2.4 992.83 1072.64 140
3 1.00 0.45 316.8 3.2 992.83 1072.64 140
4 1.25 0.45 316.0 4.0 992.83 1072.64 140
Table 8: Sample Identification Code

Code No. of Code No. of Code No. of
Samples Samples Samples
A80 3 B80 3 C80 3
A65 3 B65 3 C65 3
A45 3 B45 3 C45 3
A→.75% Fibers
B→1% Fibers
C→1.25% Fibers

7. CASTING OF SAMPLES
Concrete cylinder samples are made for your lab technician to break in a
hydraulic press machine and find the compressive strength of the concrete that is being
poured for a specific part of a structure. You will get a representative sample of freshly
mixed concrete from the truck or mixer, perform slump, temperature, and air content tests
on it, and then make cylinders that will be taken back to the lab. These samples provide
quality control for architects and engineers and allow them to determine if they will be
able to put that concrete into service for their structure, or if they need to remove what
they have poured. The cylinders' curing process will help those in charge of the project
determine how to best protect the concrete in the structure as it cures and gives them a set
of limits for form and shoring removal time.
7.1 Casting process of samples.

According to the casting principles of ASTM C31, cylinders having height 30cm
and diameter 15cm were used to carry out the casting of the concrete cylinders for
carrying out split tensile strength. The casting was carried out in a span of 3 days to
facilitate easy testing and for implementing proper casting procedures. Casting of 3
samples each for different volume and aspect ratio of fibres were casted along with 3
normal concrete cylinders for comparison with results. Casting was also carried out for 3
samples as cubes of SFRC with 1.25% Volume and 65 aspect ratio.
7.2 Steps for the casting of samples.
Step 1 - If you are also doing slump, temperature, and air content on this sample, note
that you must have these cylinders made within 15 minutes of receiving the sample, so
plan accordingly and set up your work area beforehand.

Step 2 - When you are picking a place to make your cylinders, make sure it is in a level
area that is free of debris, away from vibration, and away from moving vehicles and large
construction equipment.
Step 3 - Each layer will be rodded 25 times in an even pattern, distributing the holes
uniformly over the cross-section of the mold. When you are doing the last layer, if your
mold is underfilled you can add extra concrete to keep it properly filled.
Step 4 - Label each cylinder mold with the project number, the date and time you made
the cylinder, and the sample number. Knowing the time and date will be important for the
lab tech to know when to break the cylinders.
Fig 11 : Example of labeling on cylinder after casting
Step 5 - After the cylinder has been picked up, checked in, and carefully labeled, you will
put it in the moisture room to cure it for 28 days.
Step 6- Remove the cylinders from the curing tank and keep it for drying and carry out
testing on the following day.

Fig 12 : Casted samples for different aspect ratios and percentage of fibres (Before
Curing)
Fig 13: Casted samples in mould for 0.75 percent and 45 aspect ratio

8. TEST ON CONCRETE
8.1 Test on Fresh Concrete:
8.1.1 Flow Table test :
Workability is a complex property of concrete which directly impacts on Concrete
strength, quality and appearance and it also determines how easily freshly made concrete
can be mixed, placed, compacted and finished with the minimum to no loss concerning
homogeneity. As the name suggests, in this test the workability of concrete is determined
by examining the flowing property of concrete.Flow table test of concrete also
determines the Quality of Concrete concerning its consistency, cohesiveness and the
proneness to segregation.
A] Apparatus:
A conical mould having 130mm Top Dia x 200mm Base Dia and 200mm Height.
A flow table having mild steel top having a plain area of 700 x700mm. The center of the
table is scribed with cross lines which run parallel to and out to the edges of the table and
a circle of 200mm dia at the center.
Fig 14 : Flow Table to carry out flow table test on fresh concrete

B] Procedure of flow table test:
1. Prepare concrete as per mix design and place the flow table on a horizontal surface.
2. Clean the dust or other gritty material on Flow table and Sprinkle a hand of water
on it.
3. Now place the metal cone at the middle portion of the flow table and stand on it.
4. Pour the freshly mixed concrete in the mould comprising two layers; each layer
should be tamped with tamping rod for 25times. After tamping the last layer, the
overflowed concrete on the cone is struck off using a trowel.
5. Slowly, lift the mould vertically up & let concrete stand on its own without any
support.
6. The flow table is raised at the height of 12.5mm and dropped. The same is repeated
for 15times in 15secs.
7. Measure the spread of concrete in Diameter using centimetre scale horizontally and
vertically. The arithmetic mean of the two diameters shall be the measurement of
flow in millimetres.
C] Results: After carrying out the flow table test on the concrete, the results indicated
that the flow table value reduces with introduction of fibres. This is primarily as
introduction of fibres reduces the workability of concrete.

Fig 15 : Flow table test on fresh concrete
8.1.2 Slump Cone Test :

Concrete slump test or slump cone test is to determine the workability or
consistency of concrete mix prepared at the laboratory or the construction site during the
progress of the work. Concrete slump test is carried out from batch to batch to check the
uniform quality of concrete during construction.
A] Apparatus:
Mold for slump test i.e. slump cone, non porous base plate, measuring scale,
temping rod. The mold for the test is in the form of the frustum of a cone having height
30 cm, bottom diameter 20 cm and top diameter 10 cm. The tamping rod is of steel 16
mm diameter and 60cm long and rounded at one end.

Fig 16: Slump cone test on fresh concrete
B] Procedure:
1. Clean the internal surface of the mould and apply oil.
2. Place the mould on a smooth horizontal non- porous base plate.
3. Fill the mould with the prepared concrete mix in 4 approximately equal layers.
4. Tamp each layer with 25 strokes of the rounded end of the tamping rod in a
uniform manner over the cross section of the mould. For the subsequent layers,
the tamping should penetrate into the underlying layer.
5. Remove the excess concrete and level the surface with a trowel.
6. Clean away the mortar or water leaked out between the mould and the base plate.
7. Raise the mould from the concrete immediately and slowly in vertical direction.
8. Measure the slump as the difference between the height of the mould and that of
height point of the specimen being tested.

C] Results: (*Note - The concrete was designed for 100mm slump)
Fig 17: Carrying out Slump cone test on fresh concrete

8.2 Test on Hardened Concrete:
8.2.1 Split Tensile Test:
The tensile strength of concrete is one of the basic and important properties which
greatly affect the extent and size of cracking in structures. Moreover, the concrete is very
weak in tension due to its brittle nature. Hence. it is not expected to resist the direct
tension. So, concrete develops cracks when tensile forces exceed its tensile strength.
Therefore, it is necessary to determine the tensile strength of concrete to determine the
load at which the concrete members may crack.

A] Apparatus- Compression Testing Machine (CTM) of capacity 2000KN and two

strips to support the specimen and transfer the load uniformly.
Fig 18: Alignment of Specimen in CTM Fig 19 : Compression Testing Machine
Fig 20: Testing of Sample

B] Procedure-
1. Initially, take the wet specimen from water after 7, 28 of curing; or any desired age at
which tensile strength to be estimated.
2. Then, wipe out water from the surface of specimen

3. After that, draw diametrical lines on the two ends of the specimen to ensure that they
are on the same axial place.
4. Next, record the weight and dimension of the specimen.
5. Set the compression testing machine for the required range.
6. Place a plywood strip on the lower plate and place the specimen.
7. Align the specimen so that the lines marked on the ends are vertical and centered
over the bottom plate.
8. Place the other plywood strip above the specimen.
9. Bring down the upper plate so that it just touch the plywood strip.
10. Apply the load continuously without shock at a rate within the range 0.7 to 1.4
MPa/min (1.2 to 2.4 MPa/min based on IS 5816 1999)
11. Note down the breaking load(P).

12. Calculate the splitting tensile strength of the specimen as follows:
T= 2P/ pi LD
Where,
T = splitting tensile strength, MPa
P: maximum applied load indicated by the testing machine,N
D: diameter of the specimen, mm
L: length of the specimen,mm
C] Results:
The results from split tensile strength test show that there is a increase in split
tensile strength with increase in the fibre percentage in concrete.The specimen with
1.25% fibres and 65 aspect ratio gave the best result i.e. 3.52 KN/mm2. Furthermore

24.2% increase in split tensile strength is observed with respect to the standard M30
grade concrete.
Table no 9: Tensile strength testing results of 0% SFRC
Tensile Strength (Mpa) Average Tensile Strength (Mpa)

3.07
2.76 2.85
2.74
Table no 10: Tensile strength testing results
Different For SFRC with For SFRC with 1% For SFRC with
aspect 0.75% fibres(A) fibres(B) 1.25% fibres(C)
ratios of
fibres Tensile Strength (Mpa)
Avg. Avg. Avg.
2.94 3.03 3.21
45 3.10 3.05 3.17 3.13 3.27 3.27

3.13 3.21 3.34
3.11 3.07 3.53
65 2.90 3.01 3.21 3.18 3.72 3.52

3.02 3.26 3.31
3.07 3.11 3.31
80 3.11 3.02 3.19 3.11 3.37 3.30

2.87 3.03 3.21

Fig 21: Graph of Aspect Ratio Vs Split Tensile Strength

for Respective Fibre Percentage
Fig 22: Graph of Percentage of Fibres Vs Split Tensile Strength (MPa)

for Respective Aspect Ratios

Fig 23: Comparison between the Split Tensile Strength of

Normal Concrete Vs 1% FRC of 65 Aspect Ratio
Fig 24: Failure of Sample Fig 25: Failed C45 Specimen

8.2.2 Compression Test –

The compressive strength of the concrete cube test provides an idea about all the
characteristics of concrete. By this single test one judge that whether Concreting has been
done properly or not. Compressive strength is the ability of material or structure to carry
the loads on its surface without any crack or deflection.
A] Apparatus- Compression Testing Machine (CTM)
B] Procedure-
1. Remove the specimen from the water after specified curing time and wipe out
excess water from the surface.
2. Take the dimension of the specimen to the nearest 0.2m
3. Clean the bearing surface of the testing machine
4. Place the specimen in the machine in such a manner that the load shall be applied
to the opposite sides of the cube cast.
5. Align the specimen centrally on the base plate of the machine.
6. Rotate the movable portion gently by hand so that it touches the top surface of the
specimen.
7. Apply the load gradually without shock and continuously at the rate of 140
kg/cm2/minute till the specimen fails
8. Record the maximum load and note any unusual features in the type of failure.
9. Finally, find out the compressive strength using the following formula
Compressive Strength = Load / Cross-sectional Area

C] Results –
Fig 26: Failed Normal Concrete Block Fig 27: Failed C65 Block

8.2.3. Flexural Strength Test –
Flexural test evaluates the tensile strength of concrete indirectly. It tests the ability
of an unreinforced concrete beam or slab to withstand failure in bending. The flexural test
on concrete can be conducted using either a three point load test or center point load test.
The configuration of each test is shown in the following figures.

Fig 28: Alignment of Specimen in Three Point Testing
Size of the specimen is 100mm width, 100mm depth, and span of 500mm or 150mm
width, 150mm depth, and span of 700mm.
A] Apparatus – A Universal Testing Machine and a metal rod for applying three point
load.
B] Procedure-
1. The test should be conducted on the specimen immediately after taken out of the
curing condition so as to prevent surface drying which decline flexural strength. Place
the specimen on the loading points.
2. The hand finished surface of the specimen should not be in contact with loading
points. This will ensure an acceptable contact between the specimen and loading
points.
3. Center the loading system in relation to the applied force.
4. Bring the block applying force in contact with the specimen surface at the loading
points
5. Applying loads between 2 to 6 percent of the computed ultimate load.
6. Circular rollers manufactured out of steel having cross section with diameter 38 mm
will be used for providing support and loading points to the specimens. The length of
the rollers shall be at least 10 mm more than the width of the test specimen.

7. A total of four rollers shall be used, three out of which shall be capable of rotating
along their own axes. The distance between the outer rollers (i.e. span) shall be 3d and
the distance between the inner rollers shall be d. The inner rollers shall be equally
spaced between the outer rollers, such that the entire system is systematic.
8. For three point loading only one inner roller will be present at the center of the
specimen at the top.
9. The load shall be applied at a rate of loading of 400 kg/min for the 15.0 cm specimens
and at a rate of 180 kg/min for the 10.0 cm specimens.
10. The Flexural Strength or modulus of rupture (fb) is given by
pl/bd (when a > 20.0cm for 15.0cm specimen or > 13.0cm for 10cm specimen)
2
fb =
or
fb =
3pa/bd2 (when a < 20.0cm but > 17.0 for 15.0cm specimen or < 13.3 cm but >
11.0cm for 10.0cm specimen.)
Where,
a = the distance between the line of fracture and the nearer support, measured on the
center line of the tensile side of the specimen
b = width of specimen (cm)

d = failure point depth (cm)
l = supported length (cm)
p = max Load (kg)

C] Results- Flexural Strength of beams tested after 7 days
Table no 11: Flexural strength testing results
For SFRC with Average For Average

Aspect 1.25% fibres(C) normal
Ratio concrete
Flexural Strength (Mpa)
4.78 3.89
65 4.60 4.83 3.83 3.89

5.11 3.95

9. RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

With reference to the testing carried out the results showcased that there is a
significant increase in the split tensile strength with the introduction of fibres. As there is
a volumetric increase in the percentage of fibres, the split tensile strength increases.
9.1 Split Tensile Strength-

Results showed that samples with aspect ratio 65 and percentage of 1.25%
produced the best results with about a 23.85% increase as compared to normal concrete.
Before starting the casting, the literature showed that more the percentage and more the
aspect ratio, more is the split tensile strength. But in our case, fibres with aspect ratio 65,
which lies between the other two aspect ratio sizes, i.e. 45 and 80, showed best results.
On proper observation on the results and after detailed study, we were able to get
conclusive evidence for concluding with the reason for the same. The fibres having
aspect ratio 60, had more diameter as compared to the other two fibres and thus
showcased more strength. On the other hand, uptil 1,25%, based on our observations,
more the percentage of fibres, more is the split tensile strength. On observation, there was
a 23.85% increase with the introduction of 1.25% of fibres.
When the fibre volume fraction was increased from 0.75% to 1.25%, the splitting
tensile strength increased from 3.03 MPa to 3.42 MPa. The rate of increase of splitting
tensile strength is 5.48%, with increase in 0.25% of fibres.
9.2 Test on Fresh Concrete:

Whilst on the other hand considering the tests on fresh concrete, we were able to
observe that with an introduction of fibres, there is a drop in the workability of fresh
concrete. This is primarily because the fibres are steel fibres and do not help in flowing of
the fresh concrete mix. Thus, in further cases for casting of fibre reinforced concrete, care
must be taken to keep the water-cement ratio on the higher side so as to ensure good
workability. As compared to normal concrete mix there was a 12.5% reduction in the
value for flow table and a 25% reduction in the value of slump cone test. Thus, care must
be taken to choose appropriate water-cement ratio.
9.3 Flexural Strength Test: (to be decided)

10. CONCLUSION
The main aim of this project is to study the effect of fibre aspect ratio and fibre
volume used (in %) on the flexural and tensile properties of concrete. Through literature
review, it proves that no significant relation has been established between the two
factors considered above till date. An attempt has been made to find an inter-relation
between the two factors by carrying out sample testing with various permutations and
combinations. From the studies conducted during the course of the project, it gave a
clear idea about the materials to be used for casting of samples and their properties. After
extensive studies and research steel fibers were finalized. Steel fibers were selected
considering their extensive use in the construction industry and would provide an
application base for the project outcomes. All the tested materials satisfy the regulatory
standards and so can be used for further casting. Following that, the Mix Design was
carried out to calculate the quantity of materials to be used and carry out casting of the
required samples. From the results obtained, we can conclude the following:
1) The effect of Steel Fibre on split tensile and flexural behavior was extremely
prominent. The increase in the split tensile strength of the best result and normal
was about 23.85%.
2) Test results reveal that higher fibre content has brought about increased tensile,
compressive and flexural strength. Hence, the optimum dosage of steel fibre to
increase the split tensile, compressive and flexural strength is 1.25%.The increase
in the flexural strength of the best result and normal was about 24.16% and for
compressive is 10.34 %.
3) It is observed that split tensile and flexural strength are on the higher side for
1.25% fibres as compared to that produced from 0%, 0.75% and 1%.
4) All the strength properties are observed to be on a higher side for aspect ratio 65
as compared to those of aspect ratio 45 and 80.
5) It is observed that split tensile strength increases from 5.96% to 23.85% with
addition of steel fibres.

6) It is observed that flexural strength increases from 20.10% to 29.36% with

7) It is observed that compressive strength increases from 9.68% to 13.23% with
8) There was a 12.5% of reduction of the flow table test value as compared to
normal concrete.
9) There was a 25% of reduction of the slump cone test value as compared to
normal concrete.

REFERENCES
[1] Jianming Gao, Wei Suqa & Keiji Morino, “Mechanical Properties of Steel
Fiber-reinforced, High-strength, Lightweight Concrete”, Cement and Concrete
Composites 19, Elsevier (1997), pg. 307-313.
[2] Karththekeyan T., Baskaran K., Moratuwa, “Experimental study on steel fibre
reinforced concrete on G30 concrete” IEEE 2016, 978-1-5090-0645-8/16/31.00, 2016
[3] Y. Mohammadi, R. Carkon-Azad, S.P. Singhb, S.K. Kaushik, “Impact resistance of
steel fibrous concrete containing fibres of mixed aspect ratio” Construction and Building
Materials 23, Elsevier (2009), pg. 183–189.
[4] Rashid Hameed, Anaclet Turatsinze, Fredric Duprat, Alain Sellier, “Metallic fibre
reinforced concrete: Effect of fibre aspect ratio on the flexural properties” APRN Journal
of Engg and Applied sciences, ISSN 1819-6608, Vol 4, No 5, July 2009.
[5] R.S. Olivito, F.A. Zuccarello “An experimental study on the tensile strength of steel
ber reinforced concrete” Composites: Part B 41 Elsevier (2010), pg. 246–255.
[6] D. V. Soulioti, N. M. Barkoula, A. Paipetis, T.E. Matikas, “Effects of Fibre Geometry
and Volume Fraction on the Flexural Behaviour of Steel-Fibre Reinforced Concrete”
Strain Blackwell Publishing Ltd.(2011), pg. 1305-1475.
[7] Mohammad Jamshidi, Mohammad Abedi, Abdollah Hoseini, Mohammad Sadegh
Maerefat, “Effect of Fibre Volume fraction and aspect on Mechanical properties of
hybrid steel fibre reinforced concrete” Journal of New Approaches in Civil Engineering,
ISSN ONLINE: 2588-7122, Vol 2- No 2, June 2016.
[8] Ganta Mounika, Lakshmi Lavanya, Regu Anitha “Comparison of compressive and
split tensile strength of glass fibre reinforced concrete with conventional concrete of M20
and M30”, Indian Journal of Computational Engineering Research, ISSN 2250-3005, Vol
6- Issue 10, Oct 2016.
[9] T Sai Kiran, Ch Surya Teja, “Comparison of compressive and split tensile strength of
glass fibre reinforced concrete with conventional concrete” International Journal of
Advance Research, Ideas and Innovations in Technology Volume-4 Issue 2, 2016.

[10] Ali Ghiami Bajgirani, Soroush Moghadam, Shahriar Tavousi Tafreshi, Amirhossein
Arbab,Hossein Razeghi. “The Influence of Aspect Ratio of Steel Fibers on The
Mechanical Properties of Concrete” 3rd International Conference on Research in Civil
Engineering, Architecture, Urban Planning & Sustainable Environment, At Rome–Italy,
July 2016.
[11] A.M. Shende, A.M. Pande, M. Gulfam Pathan “Experimental Study on Steel Fiber
Reinforced Concrete for M-40 Grade ” International Refereed Journal of Engineering and
Science (IRJES) ISSN (Online) 2319-183X, (Print) 2319-1821 Volume 1, Issue 1,
September 2012.
Webography
http://www.scirp.org/journal/snl http://dx.doi.org/10.4236/snl.2015.54008
Book references
Concrete Technology Fifth Edition by M. L. Gambhir
IS Codes:
i. IS:4031 (Part 4): 1988- Methods of physical tests for hydraulic cement
(Determination of consistency of standard cement paste)
ii. IS:4031 (Part 3): 1988- Methods of physical tests for hydraulic cement
(Determination of soundness)
iii. IS 2386 -Part3: Method of test for aggregates for concrete (Part I) Particle size
and shape.
iv. IS 456-2000-code for plain cement concrete.
v. IS 516-1959-code for testing of concrete specimens.
vi. IS 5816-1970-methods of test for split tensile strength of concrete.
vii. IS 516-1959-methods of test for flexure of concrete.
viii. IS: 2386 - 1963 for sp. gravity, density, water absorption, moisture content etc.

ix. IS 10262 – Code for concrete mix design.

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Effect of Fibre Aspect Ratio on Tensile and Flexural Properties of Concrete.

In partial fulfillment of requirements for Bachelor Degree in Civil Engineering

Prof. Mr. S. B. Gorade

DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

PCCOE, Nigdi, Ac.Yr.2019-20 1 Department of Civil Engineering

PIMPRI CHINCHWAD COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING

Examination Seat No Name of the Student

Dr. S. T. Mali Dr. N. B. Chopade

PCCOE, Nigdi, Ac.Yr.2019-20 2 Department of Civil Engineering

We thank to our Principal, Dr. N. B. Chopade​, who is always a constant source

PCCOE, Nigdi, Ac.Yr.2019-20 3 Department of Civil Engineering

Concrete is widely recognized as a cost effective, versatile construction material. But,

PCCOE, Nigdi, Ac.Yr.2019-20 4 Department of Civil Engineering

PCCOE, Nigdi, Ac.Yr.2019-20 5 Department of Civil Engineering

1.9 Factors Affecting Properties of Fibre Reinforced Concrete 6

PCCOE, Nigdi, Ac.Yr.2019-20 6 Department of Civil Engineering

5.1.1 Aggregate Testing Results 23

PCCOE, Nigdi, Ac.Yr.2019-20 7 Department of Civil Engineering

PCCOE, Nigdi, Ac.Yr.2019-20 8 Department of Civil Engineering

PCCOE, Nigdi, Ac.Yr.2019-20 9 Department of Civil Engineering

Mr. Bhushan Bhavsar (71710692G) Sign

PCCOE, Nigdi, Ac.Yr.2019-20 10 Department of Civil Engineering

Concrete is a composite material composed of fine and coarse aggregate bonded

Fiber Reinforced Concrete can be defined as a composite material consisting of

PCCOE, Nigdi, Ac.Yr.2019-20 11 Department of Civil Engineering

1.2 Problem statement

PCCOE, Nigdi, Ac.Yr.2019-20 12 Department of Civil Engineering

1.5 Scope of the Project Work

1.6 Introduction to Fibre Reinforced Concrete (FRC)

PCCOE, Nigdi, Ac.Yr.2019-20 13 Department of Civil Engineering

The characteristics of concrete depend upon the:

1.7 History of Fibre Reinforced Concrete (FRC)

PCCOE, Nigdi, Ac.Yr.2019-20 14 Department of Civil Engineering

1.8 Types of Fibres

1.8.1. Glass Fibre Reinforced Concrete

1.8.2. Steel Fibre Reinforced Concrete

PCCOE, Nigdi, Ac.Yr.2019-20 15 Department of Civil Engineering

1.8.3. Polypropylene Fibre Reinforced Concrete

1.8.4. Carbon Fibers

1.8.5. Organic Fibers

1.8.6 Asbestos Fibre

PCCOE, Nigdi, Ac.Yr.2019-20 16 Department of Civil Engineering

1.9 Factors Affecting Properties of Fibre Reinforced Concrete (FRC)

1.9.2 Volume of Fibres

PCCOE, Nigdi, Ac.Yr.2019-20 17 Department of Civil Engineering

Table 1: Comparison of Strength for FRC and Normal Concrete

Type of Concrete Aspect Ratio Relative Strength Relative Toughness

Plain Concrete 25 1.5 2.0

100 1.5 8.5

1.9.4 Orientation of Fibers

PCCOE, Nigdi, Ac.Yr.2019-20 18 Department of Civil Engineering

1.9.6 Size of Coarse Aggregate

PCCOE, Nigdi, Ac.Yr.2019-20 19 Department of Civil Engineering

2.2 Literature review

PCCOE, Nigdi, Ac.Yr.2019-20 20 Department of Civil Engineering

Y. Mohammadi [3] et.al. presents results of an investigation conducted to study

PCCOE, Nigdi, Ac.Yr.2019-20 21 Department of Civil Engineering

PCCOE, Nigdi, Ac.Yr.2019-20 22 Department of Civil Engineering

D. V. Soulioti [6] et.al. aims in studying the mechanical behaviour of concrete,

PCCOE, Nigdi, Ac.Yr.2019-20 23 Department of Civil Engineering

PCCOE, Nigdi, Ac.Yr.2019-20 24 Department of Civil Engineering

PCCOE, Nigdi, Ac.Yr.2019-20 25 Department of Civil Engineering

represented graphically. Result data clearly shows percentage increase in 28 days

We thank to our Principal, Dr. N. B. Chopade, who is always a constant source

Fig 2: Fibres of Aspect Ratio 65 Fig 3: Fibres of Aspect Ratio 80

Fig 4: Fibres of Aspect Ratio 45

cement content =320 kg/m3