Experimental Analysis of the Split Tensile Strength of Self-Compacting Concrete (SCC) Reinforced with Chopped Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CCFRP)

Self-compacting concrete (SCC) is a highly flowable type of concrete that does not require vibrations during pouring. Researchers have explored various ways to improve its mechanical properties by adding different materials or replacing them with concrete mixes. One material that has been found to enhance concrete strength is carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP), which is known for its durability and stiffness. This study investigates the effectiveness of using Chopped Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer (CCFRP) to reinforce SCC and improve its mechanical properties. A total of 126 cylindrical concrete specimens, divided into three different design mixes (M20, M30, and M40) with varying percentages of CCFRP (0%, 0.05%, 0.10%, 0.125%, 0.15%, 0.175%, and 0.20%), were tested for compressive strength and split tensile strength. The results for the compressive strength showed that the optimal CCFRP contents for the M20, M30, and M40 design mixes were 0.15%, 0.125%, and 0.05%, respectively. The addition of CCFRP significantly affected the compressive strength of the concrete; however, its effect on the split tensile strength varied based on the design mix. For M20 and M30, there was no significant effect on the split tensile strength, whereas for M40, the CCFRP had a significant impact. The recorded optimal CCFRP amounts for the split tensile strength were 0%, 0.125%, and 0.20% for M20, M30, and M40, respectively. In conclusion, there was a positive relationship between the compressive and split tensile strengths of SCC, but the addition of CCFRP did not consistently improve its mechanical properties. The optimal amount of CCFRP required varied depending on the design mix.