Fiber distribution and orientation in full scale walls investigated from drilled cores using the inductive method and the Montevideo splitting test

The so-called ‘Montevideo test’ (MVD) based on the wedge-splitting test and the inductive method have been used in large structural elements to characterize the fiber reinforced concrete (FRC) strength and to assess the fiber orientation, respectively. Despite the observed variations in fiber orientation across the analysed walls, the correlation between the two methods is remarkably good, suggesting the possibility for estimating the fiber orientation using the MVD test results. This research paper primarily investigates the correlation between the standard bending test (EN14651) and the MVD test by means of experimental results and analytical methods. Additionally, the tensile properties of the concrete are derived as a multi-linear stress-crack opening relationship from the test results using inverse analysis which have been used to predict the behaviour of the concrete under the MVD test. This makes it possible to compare the results from both tests and a load correlation factor is reported. Considering the advantages of the application of the MVD test, this study also proposes a novel methodology for evaluating the orientation factor in structural elements using the MVD test results. The MVD tests were conducted on drilled cores extracted from two large-scale wall elements. Additionally, the fiber distribution and orientation within these cores were assessed using the inductive method on the drilled cores. The results from both techniques were then correlated to assess and draw conclusions about the fiber orientation factor and the definition of a novel capacity factor is introduced. One important finding is that the MVD test can be used to determine the fibre orientation in FRC with non-metallic fibers. • The MVD test shows strong potential to assess FRC strength and fiber orientation. • Residual loads from the MVD test align well with EN14651 bending tests. • MVD test correlates well with the inductive method for fiber orientation. • MVD capacity factor estimates fiber orientation in metallic and non-metallic FRC.