An Evaluation of Mechanical and Fracture Characteristics of Geopolymer Concrete Incorporating Steel Fibers.

Abstract

The present research aims to examine the impact of steel fiber inclusion (ranging from 0% - considered as reference, 0.08%, 0.16%, 0.24%, to 0.32%) on the mechanical and fracture characteristics of notched geopolymer concrete unreinforced beams (GCUB). These beams are prepared using fly ash and GGBFS (Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag), and the findings are compared with those from plain cement concrete unreinforced beams. The investigation encompasses various parameters including compressive strength, bending strength, split tensile strength, fracture energy (GF), crack mouth opening displacement (CMOD), and stress intensity factor (KIC). The primary focus is to assess how the inclusion of crimped steel fibers influences the ability of geopolymer concrete to arrest cracks. The outcomes obtained from the study underscore the effectiveness of crimped steel fibers in mitigating crack propagation and averting brittle fractures within notched geopolymer concrete unreinforced beams. The results indicate notable enhancements across all fracture and mechanical parameters upon the introduction of steel fibers. This points towards the positive impact and efficiency of steel fibers in augmenting the behavior of geopolymer concrete, making it more resistant to crack propagation and brittle failure.