Microscopic, physical and mechanical analysis of polypropylene fiber reinforced concrete

This investigation examined the reinforcing effects and mechanisms of polypropylene fiber (PF) on the physical and mechanical properties of concrete. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to observe the crystal structures and that at the aggregate-cement interfacial transition zone. Physical and mechanical tests were performed to measure the effects of PF on improving concrete's engineering properties. Results indicate that PF significantly alters the microstructure of concrete, reduces the crystallization and orientation of Ca(OH)2, and decreases micro-voids. Specifically, PF forms a network that restricts the growth of Ca(OH)2, bridges cracking, and reallocates stresses. PF has reduced the amount and size of crystalline, and the micro-cracking at the aggregate-cement interfacial transition zone. As a result, PF has effectively improved concrete's compressive strength, flexural strength, bonding strength, dynamic performance, and fatigue life, while reduced the water penetration and abrasion mass loss. Results also indicate that a PF content of 0.9 kg/m3 has the optimum concrete performance output for the materials used in this study.