Computational Analysis of Hybrid Fiber-Reinforced Concrete

Abstract

The findings of this research provide a computational evaluation of Hybrid Fiber Reinforced Concrete (HFRC) which comprises of Glass and Steel Fibers with the aim to boost mechanical characteristics such as tensile strength, toughness and crack resistance. Based on ABAQUS Finite Element Analysis, this research reports a detailed mechanical behavior of concrete cylinders and beams under displacement-controlled compression and uniformly distributed loadings respectively. Six models (M0–M5) have been prepared, with different proportions based on volume of the fibers to analyze the influence on the structural member parameters. From the simulations carried out, evidence of enhancements in the displacement resistance as well as stress distribution where fibers are incorporated is well illustrated. In particular, fiber orientation and content were proven to be predictive of load distribution and deformation behavior. M0 was found to have minimum stress resistance and the other reinforced models revealed more than doubled the maximum stress with M1 having the highest stress resistance. As such, the extent of fiber incorporation and its significance to enhancing the structure’s performance are principal findings pointing to the requirement for additional computational and experimental research on the fiber orientation and content. Thus, the present research helps in filling up the knowledge gap concerning the behavior of HFRC while under load and serves as a starting point in the use of computational modelling to improve the performance and durability of concrete structures reinforced with fibers.