Numerical modeling of fibre-reinforced concrete

This paper reports the findings of a study into the behaviour of steel-fibre-reinforced concrete (SFRC) using non-linear finite-element analysis and existing experimental data. The overall aim of the research work is to formulate a reappraisal of the way in which stresses, deformations and cracking of such structural elements are predicted at present under both static and dynamic loading and how these predictions can be used to influence design decisions. The literature survey that preceded the work helped identify major shortcoming in the way SFRC mechanical properties are classified and presented at the moment and the lack of a unified approach to selecting a suitable model for general analysis and design purposes. There is also a clear gap in the literature on the application of SFRC constitutive models to study the potential of applying SFRC to enhance the seismic response of a structure and to assess the potential ductility and energy absorption capacity of such composites.