Flexural behavior of high-strength concrete beams reinforced with a strain hardening cement-based composite layer

Abstract High-strength concrete (HSC) is often used in construction. High-strength concrete exhibits high compressive strength, but the flexural strength and cracking are problems for this material. Strain-hardening cement-based composites were recently developed as a repair material for improving crack control and flexural strength. This paper details the behavior of high-strength concrete beams reinforced with a strain hardening cement-based composite (SHCC) and steel fibers. A new method for improving concrete beam flexural behavior was explored by laying a layer of SHCC in the concrete beam in situ. The flexural behavior of HSC beams containing steel fibers was also studied using a high fiber content. Three types of beams were cast, and a series of tests were conducted. The flexural results indicated that the added SHCC layer increased the load-bearing capacity of the beams. Adding steel fibers significantly increased the load-bearing capacity of the beam.