Pull-out behavior of single steel fiber from SIFCON matrix

Slurry Infiltrated Fiber Concrete (SIFCON) is a special type of steel fiber-reinforced cement composite which has superior mechanical properties such as compressive, tensile, shear and flexural strengths with extraordinary toughness values. In this experimental study, the effect of mix proportions of SIFCON matrix (slurry), curing conditions, aspect ratio of steel fiber, embedded length and fiber type on the single fiber pull-out behavior from SIFCON matrix was investigated. Test results indicated that fiber type, embedded length of fiber, curing conditions, fiber end condition, and matrix strength has a considerable effect on fiber–matrix bond. Increasing the diameter of the fiber and improving the curing conditions increased matrix–fiber bond. In addition, increasing bond strength was observed with increasing strength of SIFCON matrix. The pull-out toughness increased by increasing embedded length of fiber. It has been observed that hooked end fibers have shown better interface bond compared to the smooth fibers.

► This paper investigates the pull-out behavior of single steel fiber from SIFCON matrix. ► Peak pull-out load and debonding toughness were determined by the single pull-out test. ► The fiber–matrix interface bond was significantly influenced by curing conditions and matrix strength. ► Fiber rupture observed after autoclave curing which means bond strength is higher than tensile strength of the fiber. ► Hooked-end fibers showed better bond strength and toughness than smooth steel fibers.