Macro synthetic fibre reinforced concrete: Influence of the matrix mix design on interfacial bond behavior

Since the composite nature of Fibre Reinforced Concrete materials, their performance is strictly dependent on the mechanical properties of their components, matrix and fibres, but, above all, on their interaction. The collaboration of the two materials is directly responsible of the force transferring mechanism from concrete to fibres that reflects their contribute in the residual flexural strength performance. This paper aims at understanding how the concrete admixture components might affect the bond of polypropylene crimped fibres, and presents the preliminary results of an experimental campaign consisting of pull-out and compression tests. Four water cement ratios and three cement-sand ratios were considered. The experimental analysis is also supported by the calibration of a numerical model that simulates the pull-out behaviour of a single fibre.