Influence of Different Fiber Dosages on the Behaviour of Façade Anchors in High-Performance Concrete

Abstract

The behaviour of façade anchors in high performance fiber reinforced concrete (HPFRC) has not been investigated in sufficient detail in recent years. The regulations in the European Technical Approvals also do not fully describe the load-bearing capacity of anchor systems. Due to the increase in the production of HPFRC elements, it is necessary to analyse the impact of added fibers in the concrete composition on the behaviour of anchors. In particular, the behaviour of anchors in filigree façade elements, which is one of the main application areas of the programme of polypropylene (PP) fiber-reinforced concrete, is therefore analysed. With a sufficient content of PP fibers surrounding the steel anchors oriented in an optimal direction, the fibers may enhance both the load-bearing capacity of anchors and the ductility of concrete. However, unfavourable effects on the installation process or even on the load-bearing capacity may also occur due to unfavourable fiber orientation. Therefore, tensile and punching tests were carried out in uncracked concrete with different types of anchor systems containing a tension anchor and an adjustable spacer bolt. The PP fiber content of the concrete component varied during the tests.