Flexural Performance and Flexural Toughness Evaluation Method of High-Strength Engineered Cementitious Composites
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Ordinary concrete exhibits inherent brittleness, which restricts its deformation capacity and durability under extreme loading conditions. Engineered cementitious composites (ECC) have been developed to address these limitations; however, conventional ECC often suffers from relatively low compressive strength, limiting its use in demanding structural applications. To overcome this drawback, high-strength ECC (HS-ECC) was prepared by incorporating high-volume mineral admixtures and three types of synthetic fibers-polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). This study aimed to investigate the influence of fiber type and dosage on the flexural behavior of HS-ECC and to propose a toughness evaluation framework better suited to its strain-hardening characteristics. A comprehensive experimental program, including compressive and four-point bending tests, was conducted to evaluate failure modes, flexural performance, and post-cracking behavior. Results showed that PE fibers significantly enhanced flexural strength and toughness, PP fibers provided superior deformability at higher dosages, while PVA fibers tended to fracture due to strong matrix bonding, limiting their effectiveness in high-strength matrices. Based on the observed load–deflection responses, a physically meaningful flexural toughness evaluation method was developed, which reliably captured elastic, hardening, and softening stages of HS-ECC. The findings not only clarify the role of different fiber types in HS-ECC but also offer a new evaluation approach that can guide fiber selection and mix design for structural applications.
Source: Buildings
Authors: Bo Chen, Liang Hou, Rong-Guo Yan, Xiang-Yu Zhang, Hao Meng, Jing-Tian Li
Institution: Xi’an University
Language: English
Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,137
Award: G8149697676
OpenAlex ID: W4415953968