The spalling strength of ultra-fiber reinforced cement mortar

This is a research report about the effects of polypropylene fiber and wood fiber on mechanical properties of cement mortar. First, using advanced Hopkinson pressure bar (HPB) tests, it investigates the wave propagation in cement mortar comprised polypropylene fiber and wood fiber. Second, according to the experiment, the spallation position is recorded by high-speed camera. Thirdly, it analyzes the test data of ultra-fiber reinforced and common cement mortar by numerical method. Finally, it deduces the spalling strength of all kinds of cement mortar by integrating all experimental data above. The results indicate that, compared with the strength of common cement mortar, the dynamic spalling strength of ultra-fiber especially that of the polypropylene fiber reinforced cement mortar increases evidently. However, adding too much fibers will deteriorate the dynamic spalling strength of cement mortar specimen. So the results will provide a test basis for further optimizing performance of cement mortar.

► The effects of polypropylene fiber and wood fiber on mechanical properties of cement mortar are studied. ► Advanced HPB tests combing with high-speed camera are employed. ► The spalling strength of cement mortars is deduced by numerical method. ► Dynamic spalling strength of ultra-fiber, especially the polypropylene fiber reinforced cement mortar increases evidently. ► Too many fibers will deteriorate the dynamic spalling strength of cement mortar specimen.