Synergistic effect of SBR latex and steel fibres on mechanical properties of high strength concrete

Abstract

This study presents the synergistic effects of polymer and steel fibres on high strength concrete. The various physical/ mechanical properties considered in this study are workability, compressive strength, flexural strength, shear strength and toughness. The reference mix having strength of 50.96 MPa is used throughout the study. The dosages of SBR latex (polymer) are varied as 5%, 10% and 15% by weight of cement and steel fibre content varied from 1% to 10% by weight of cement at the interval of 1%. Two curing regimes were considered in this investigation. Standard cubes of size 150mm, prisms of size 150 × 150 × 700mm, push-off specimens of size 150 × 150 × 450mm for single shear were prepared. A comprehensive casting and testing program was carried out with 324 specimens for 28 days. The workability of fresh concrete is found to be increased with addition of polymer in fibre reinforced concrete. The significant improvement in various strengths and toughnesses is achieved compared to the reference concrete.