Direct tensile properties of engineered cementitious composites: A review

The high tensile strain capacity of engineered cementitious composites (ECC) is exceptional for cementitious material. In the present paper, a comprehensive review is conducted to summarize the fundamental information of factors that influence the tensile properties of ECC, specifically the fiber properties, specimen size and geometry, and strain rate. The extended durability of ECC, including the long-term tensile properties, the mechanical behaviors under the high temperature impact and the cyclic and fatigue loading, is also paid special attention. It is concluded that (1) fiber properties have a decisive effect on the tensile performance of ECC; (2) size and geometry effect exists in tensile test and needs further study; (3) high rate loading leads to a noticeable changes in the tensile properties of ECC; and (4) durability of tensile properties should be further investigated for the better application of ECC material.