| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 253447 | Composite Structures | 2011 | 7 Pages |
This work presents an experimental study of thermal conductivity, compressive strength, first crack strength and ductility indices of recycled PET fiber-reinforced concrete (RPETFRC). We examine PET filaments industrially extruded from recycled PET bottle flakes with different mechanical properties and profiles. On considering a volumetric fiber dosage at 1%, we observe marked improvements in thermal resistance, mechanical strengths and ductility of RPETFRC, as compared to plain concrete. A comparative study with earlier literature results indicates that RPETFRC is also highly competitive over polypropylene-fiber-reinforced concrete in terms of compressive strength and fracture toughness.
Graphical abstractForce (F) vs crack tip opening displacement (CTODm) responses observed for plain concrete (UNRC), different kinds of recycled PET fiber-reinforced concrete (RPETFRC/a,b,c), and polypropylene-fiber-reinforced concrete (PPFRC).Collapse configuration of a RPETFRC/a specimen undergoing a four-point bending test. The bridging effect played by fibers (PET/a) in the regime of large deflections is clearly visible.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Thermal conductivity and mechanical properties of RPET fiber reinforced concretes are measured. ► Industrially extruded RPET monofilaments at 1% volumetric content are employed. ► Marked increases in thermal resistance and mechanical strengths are observed in RPETFRC over UNRC. ► The addition of RPET fibers to the mix design produces significantly large ductility of concrete. ► RPETFRC is competitive over polypropylene-FRC in terms of strength and ductility enhancements.
