Fracture Testing of Functionally Graded Fiber Reinforced Cement Composite
This research project analyzes the fracture behavior of functionally graded fiber reinforced cement composite (FGFRCC) in different fiber percent configurations. Functionally graded fiber was used to reinforce cement composites to improve its strength and toughness. Four layered fiber reinforced cement composite sample beams were manufactured by extrusion process to permit the alignment of fiber and to produce homogenous layers. Two configurations of four layer samples were prepared: one having an increasing fiber volume ratio from top to bottom and the other one from bottom to top. The beam samples required a small pre-crack in the middle-lower section for a standard fracture testing to control the location of the fracture. In addition, in the experimental process, metal plates aligned to the pre-crack were used to help measure the crack mouth opening displacement (CMOD). The CMOD versus force applied was plotted for analysis. Adding fibers to the cement paste influences fracture behavior and enhanced its post-cracking response. Furthermore, the specimen with highest percent of fiber in the bottom layer resulted in improved load carrying capacity of tensile force concentration in the bending beam experiment. Finally, the fracture toughness behavior of the material was analyzed.
School:
University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez
Department:
Civil Engineering
Research Advisor:
Glaucio Paulino
Department of Research Advisor:
Civil & Environmental Engineering
Year of Publication:
2007