Mechanical properties of ultra-high-performance fiber-reinforced concrete: A review

A comprehensive investigation into the mechanical properties of ultra-high-performance fiber-reinforced concrete (UHPFRC), considering various influential factors, is imperative in order to obtain fundamental information for its practical utilization. Therefore, this paper reviewed the early-age strength (or setting) development and mechanical properties of hardened UHPFRC. In connection with the latter, the effects of the curing conditions, coarse aggregate, mineral admixtures, fiber properties, specimen size, and strain-rate on the mechanical performance of UHPFRC were specifically investigated. It was obvious that (1) heat treatment accelerates the hydration process, leading to higher strength; (2) a portion of the silica fume can be replaced by fly ash, slag, and rice husk ash in mechanical perspective; (3) the use of deformed (hooked and twisted) or long straight steel fibers improves the mechanical properties at a static rate; and (4) high rate loading provides a noticeable increase in the mechanical properties. Alternatively, there are some disagreements between the results from various ‘size effect’ tests and the effectiveness of using twisted steel fibers at static and high rate loadings. Further research to reduce the production cost of UHPFRC is also addressed in an attempt to make its widespread use more practical.