Mechanical Performance of Fiber-Reinforced Self-Compacting Concrete: Comparative Analysis and Structural Implications

Abstract

The aim of this study is to assess the mechanical properties of different types of fibre-reinforced self-compacting concrete (FRSCC) such as steel fibre (SFSCC), glass fibre (GFSCC), polypropylene fibre (PFSCC) and plain self-compacting concrete (SCC). This will involve the evaluation of various fibres’ influences on the key strength parameters including compressive, split tensile, flexural and shear strengths. The results obtained from the compressive strength tests show that SFSCC has the best performance among all fibre-reinforced mixes with a peak value of 40.41 MPa at 0.5% fibre dosage. In relation to split tensile strength, SFSCC has a slight increase over plain SCC while GFSCC and PFSCC have shown significant improvements with increasing fibre content. All three types of FRSCCs indicate an enhancement in flexural strength, with SFSCC having higher values than any other type. Shear strength tests also confirm that SFSCC is superior to both GFSCCs and PFSCCs as well as the control mix. From these findings it is clear that the incorporation of fibres into SCC significantly improves its mechanical properties whereby steel fibres provide the most pronounced overall benefits. Each fibre type contributes differently depending on the mechanical parameter being analysed which implies there are possibilities for customised applications based on specific structural requirements. The findings of this study have shown that fibre reinforcement can improve the performance of SCC for future construction needs. Future research should focus on optimising fibre dosages, exploring hybrid fibre combinations and assessing long-term durability to increase the use of FRSCC in modern structural engineering practices.