Design methods of fibre reinforced concrete: a state-of-the-art review

Magazine article, 2008

The increasing interest in the use of fibre reinforcement has created a need for established design and analysis methods. Fibre reinforcement is mainly used in applications such as industrial floors and sprayed concrete, although other application areas exist. Apart from increased load carrying capacity, one of the main benefits of adding fibres to concrete is the potential reduction in crack width, which depends on the amount of fibres added and positively affects the durability of the finished structure. By comparing ten design methods proposed by technical committees, this paper provides a basis for further research aimed at developing a common design basis. Evaluation is based on the way the fibre capacity is considered. In addition, a “good” design method should also consider all (or most) design situations. It was found that, for design, the Italian proposal provides comprehensiveness. However, some amendments are needed, e.g. a suggestion is that the proposed formula for calculating crack width/crack spacing be modified to also consider the residual tensile strength.