The effect of curing conditions on the mechanical properties of SIFCON

Abstract

In this study, the effect of curing conditions on the mechanical properties of slurry infiltrated fiber reinforced concrete (SIFCON) was investigated. For this purpose, SIFCON samples containing 4% and 8% steel fiber with two different aspect ratios were produced. The samples were subjected to three different curing types, namely standard, dry and accelerated curing methods. Ultrasonic wave velocity, flexural strength, fracture toughness, compressive strength, impact resistance and capillary water absorption tests were performed on the samples. The highest flexural strength was found to be achieved in the samples with an aspect ratio of 55 and a content of 8% steel fiber. The most suitable curing method was determined as the standard curing method and the best flexural strength was achieved at the rate of 8%. According to the test results, the best strength properties were achieved in the samples exposed to the standard curing method. In addition, the samples exposed to the accelerated curing method showed satisfactory values. The accelerated curing method can be used as an alternative in SIFCON production especially in applications requiring mass production.

The flexural and shear behavior of SIFCON concrete beams with steel and GFRP bars

“…Concrete is one of the most-used construction materials because of a lot of advantages such as high compressive strength, good durability and lower cost. However, in spite of these advantages, concrete also has disadvantages such as low tensile strength, brittleness, low deformation capacity and load bearing strength after cracking etc [1][2][3]. On the other hand, the weak properties of concrete can be improved with the help of different materials.…”

“…Several types of fiber such as steel, glass polypropylene and a new type of fiber polyolefin can be used in SIFCON mixture. On the other hand, the defense structures, safe vaults, industrial floors, pavements, strengthening and retrofitting works, seismic resistant structures and military structures are some potential usage areas of SIFCON due to their high energy dissipation capacity, high impact resistance [1]. However, the use of SIFCON in these areas has been limited due to quality control and its high cost.…”

Literature Review of Cement Matrices and Fibers Used in SIFCON

“…Many studies on a mechanical characteristic of SIFICON were adopted. Increased in the compressive, flexural, and tensile strength was singed for concrete [21][22][23][24]. High volume fiber in the SIFCON significantly improved properties such ductility, toughness, durability, and compressive and flexural strengths [25][26][27][28][29][30].…”