Steel Fiber-Reinforced Concrete: From Material Design to Structural Performance—A Review
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Abstract
Steel Fiber Reinforced Concrete (SFRC) has been developed as a high-performance material that can overcome the limitations of conventional concrete, especially its low tensile strength. This review aims to provide a critical evaluation of SFRC by correlating its material design properties with its mechanical properties. Emphasis has been given to the fiber properties, especially its geometry, aspect ratio, dosage rate, and distribution. The fiber properties are important at both the micro-level and the macro-level. The fiber-matrix bond, especially at the interfacial transition zone (ITZ), plays a crucial role. The crack-bridging mechanism has been identified as the main contributor to the improved tensile strength, bending strength, toughness, and post-crack load capacity. SFRC has also shown promising results in terms of compressive strength, impact resistance, fatigue resistance, and durability. SFRC has shown promising results at the structural level, especially in beams, slabs, pavements, and seismic-resistant structures. SFRC can provide ductility and increase the life of structures, thereby reducing the amount of conventional reinforcement used. However, there are some limitations, especially with regard to the standardization of designs and the durability of SFRC.
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