Structural performance of fbrous ferrocement slabs

Abstract

The main objective of this investigation was to study the efects of incorporating discontinuous steel and aluminum fbers in a thin mortar matrix of ferrocement one-way slabs. The following parameters were investigated; frst, percentages of fber content as volumetric ratios 0.25, 0.5, and 0.75. Second, the type of fbers (steel fbers and aluminum fbers made from waste metallic cans). Using aluminum fbers in ferrocement composite led to a decrease in compressive strength linearly. While the addition of steel fbers led to an increase in compressive strength compared to reference one. Ferrocement with 0.75% steel fber showed the highest increase in ductility and toughness compared to the reference slab. While 0.25% aluminum fber showed the highest increase in ductility and toughness compared to the reference slab. Stifness was found to be decreased for slabs incorporating fbers regardless of their type due to the increased number of cracks before failure and the increase in ductility of slabs.