Shear properties of engineered cementitious composites using polyvinyl alcohol fiber

Abstract

The utilization of Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) fibers in Engineering Cementitious Composites (ECC) has garnered significant attention in the realm of construction materials. This composite, formed from cement and ultra-ductile fibers, demonstrates exceptional properties, including high strength, resistance to elevated temperatures and corrosion, making it indispensable in structural engineering. Notably effective in seismic-resistant infrastructure and enduring structures subjected to harsh environmental conditions, ECC with PVA fibers stands out for its ductility and strainhardening capabilities. This study delves into ECC by incorporating various materials like cement, fly ash, sand, PVA fibers, and superplasticizer. PVA fibers, despite being costly, significantly augment ECC's ductility, strain-hardening behavior, and energy absorption properties. The inclusion of these fibers bolsters both shear and compression strength, elevating overall structural performance. Unlike conventional concrete, ECC showcases a remarkable tensile strain capacity of 3- 7%, contributing to its distinct characteristics. The literature review consolidates studies investigating PVA fiber's impact on ECC's mechanical properties, emphasizing enhancements in strength, toughness, and crack control. Factors such as fiber types, density, and additives are explored, showcasing how ECC with PVA fibers can augment performance and sustainability in construction materials. Findings reveal an increase in compressive strength at 7 days with added PVA fibers, albeit with some variations at 28 days. Similarly, shear strength escalates with increased PVA fiber content up to 1.5%, enhancing bonding and load-bearing capacity. However, higher fiber content at 2% causes increased water consumption, reducing load-carrying capacity. ECC fortified with PVA fibers demonstrates superior strength and durability compared to traditional concrete, overcoming brittleness and crack susceptibility. The research highlights the influence of fiber content on enhancing bonding and shear strength, establishing the potential for ECC with PVA fibers to revolutionize construction materials and practices.