Effect of fiber hybridization on energy absorption and synergy in concrete

In the present study, steel and polypropylene (PP) fibers have been utilized with the intent of obtaining hybrid fiber-reinforced concrete (HFRC) with desirable mechanical properties. An attempt has been made to scrutinize the properties of HFRC with the main concentration being on energy absorption characteristics of concrete and the efficacy of fiber hybridization in producing synergy. Accordingly, a total of 180 specimens, representing 20 different mixtures have been cast and evaluated through compressive, split tensile, and flexural tests. The relevant flexural toughness of the specimens was calculated using ASTM C1018, ASTM C1609, JSCE, and PCS methods, and the effectiveness of these methods was evaluated based on the experimental results. It was observed that steel fibers are more effective in the improvement of flexural toughness in the presence of PP fibers. Furthermore, synergy associated with the combination of fibers at different stages of deflection of the beam specimens was observed and analyzed.