Published online by Cambridge University Press: 21 February 2011
Results of Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) studies on the fracture of polypropylene fiber-hydrated cement interface are presented.
The fiber reinforced concrete specimens were tested in direct tension. The resulting fracture surfaces were observed, including surface adhesion and mechanical bond between the fibers and the hydrated cement paste.
The nature of the fiber fracture was also studied. Mechanical bond was achieved due to the surface and shape of the fibers. Adhesion between the fibers and the cement paste was observed microscopically and confirmed by (EDX) analysis. The nature of the fiber reinforcement was observed at the tensile fracture.