VALIDATION OF HDPE FIBERS FOR SHOWN CONCRETE FOR TRANSFERS

Abstract

Water transfers have great economic, social and environmental importance in Cuba. Fiber-reinforced concrete is used in its construction. In this, the steel is completely replaced by the structural fiber, which prevents shrinkage and cracking. The objective of this work was to validate the use of High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) fibers of national production for shotcrete in transfer channels. The impact of the fibers on the rheological and physical-mechanical properties of the concrete was evaluated, the most appropriate dose and its impact on the shrinkage and cracking of the concrete will be determined. The main variables were defined as the type of cement, the fiber dosage, the impact on shrinkage and the properties in the fresh and hardened state. The evaluation of the impact of the fibers was performed in 25 MPa concrete. It is demonstrated that the incorporation of HDPE fibers of national production in Fiber-Reinforced concrete is a useful means to improve its ability to control the propagation of cracks, increase its resistance and its deformation capacity. For concrete with P-35 Portland cement, the recommended dose is 5 kg/m3, while for PP-35 it is between 4-5 kg/m3.