Evaluation on Protection Performance and On-Site Applicability of Hybrid Fiber-Reinforced Concrete

The aim of this research is to evaluate the protecting performance of hybrid fiber-reinforced concrete against lateral forces such as explosives or flying objects. The objective of this research is to better prepare this concrete for use in the ready-mix concrete industry. Even though the fiber addition gives it strong mechanical properties, it also decreases workability due to the inefficient dispersion of fibers. Therefore, it has been difficult to apply to the readymix concrete plant's mixing, delivery and on-site placement. The authors have developed a combined steel and polyaramid fiber that gives the favorable protection needed against high-impact forces and provides a suitable workability for the ready-mix concrete system. To evaluate the required performance, the hybrid fiber-reinforced concrete specimen was subjected to high-speed projectiles and had its workability and performance tested on a construction site of an established ready-mix concrete company. The hybrid fiber-reinforced concrete successfully provided the protection capabilities sought for the finished product and provided a workable-ready mix applicability.