MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF CONCRETE REINFORCED WITH STEEL FIBRE

Concrete is one of the most widely used construction materials globally due to its high compressive strength, durability, and versatility. However, its inherent low tensile strength and brittle nature limit its performance under tensile and dynamic loading conditions. To overcome these limitations, fibre reinforcement has emerged as an effective technique for enhancing the mechanical and durability properties of concrete. This study examines the behaviour and performance of fibre-reinforced concrete, with particular emphasis on steel and synthetic fibres, which are among the most commonly used fibre types in modern construction. The study reviews the influence of fibre content, orientation, aspect ratio, and type on the mechanical properties of concrete, including strength, toughness, ductility, crack resistance, and residual load-bearing capacity. Findings indicate that the incorporation of fibres transforms concrete from a brittle material into a more ductile composite, thereby improving its structural performance and durability. Furthermore, the study highlights the growing application of Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (FRP) materials as alternatives to conventional steel reinforcement due to their lightweight nature, corrosion resistance, and enhanced toughness. The research concludes that fibre reinforcement significantly improves the overall performance of concrete and offers a promising solution for achieving more durable and resilient structures. It recommends further experimental investigations into the combined effects of different fibre types and mix designs to optimize the performance of fibre-reinforced concrete in various engineering applications.