Model to predict cracking in fibre reinforced concrete due to restrained shrinkage

Abstract

Many parameters govern the performance of fibre reinforced concrete subjected to restrained shrinkage. These include the potential extent of shrinkage, the degree of restraint, time-dependent constitutive properties of concrete, fibre parameters and bond characteristics of the fibre–matrix interface. An analytical model is proposed which incorporates many of the key parameters and enables progressive cracking development to be predicted in fibre reinforced concrete subjected to restrained shrinkage. The theoretical background is outlined, followed by a comparison of the model prediction with two sets of data.