Effect of Steel Fibers (13mm), Polypropylene Econo-net Fibers, Glass Fibers, Chemical Additives, and Polymer Latex on UHPC

Abstract

Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC), also known as reactive powder concrete, is a modern cement material that first emerged in France in the 1990s. Over the years, extensive research has been conducted on making UHPC a sustainable building material due to its excellent strength and durability in the global construction market. Several studies have shown that adding fibers improves UHPC properties, including its ability to flow, consolidate, behave after breaking, and maintain strength and durability when hardened. These improvements in concrete properties have led to slender structural elements and reduced own-weight of buildings, resulting in smaller lateral loads during earthquakes. Currently, the effect of fiber reinforcement micro-scale chemical additives and polymeric latexes on the fresh and hardened properties of UHPC materials needs further research investigation. This research work aims at assessing how commercial fibers and chemical additives impact UHPC performance. It analyzes a standard UHPC mix, referred to as the Control mix, made from Portland cement, special admixtures, silica powder, and quartz sand. Other tested UHPC mixtures included different types of fibers, titanium dioxide (TiO₂) and iron oxide (Fe2O3), as well as polymeric latex Styrene-Butadiene Rubber (SBR) latex. There are two primary purposes of the study. The first one is to evaluate and measure the mechanical performance and flowability of UHPC in the presence of fibers and additives. The second one is to propose UHPC mixes for repair applications and assess their behavior through testing in accordance with relevant standards.