Flexural strength of Ferrocement panels using Self compacting Mortar and Low cost Steel Fibers

Certain limitations in traditional ferrocement construction could be overcome with the help of stronger, durable and better quality Self-Compacting Mortar (SCM) and Low cost Steel Fibers. An attempt was made in this work to develop a satisfactory SCM, that auto-compacts by de-airing without any means of mechanical compaction, while it fills and flows throughout the form under its own weight and remains stable in fresh state. Static and dynamic stability of SCM i.e. compatibility of cement and chemical admixture as well as segregation-bleeding resistance throughout the casting process is vital. In addition to the inclusion of fibers in to mortar not only provides considerably more ductile structure but also improves the structural properties such as tensile strength, static flexural strength, impact strength, flexural toughness and the energy absorption capacity of the high strength concrete. the properties and proportions of mix ingredients, stability is highly sensitive to the powder-admixture compatibility, especially if fly ash is used. Therefore, production of stable and workable SCM is challenging. The present study was limited to laboratory tests and aimed to develop acceptable SCM using locally available materials, ensuring flowing ability, filling ability and control over segregation and bleeding. Compatibility issues were studied using various cements and admixtures by Visual Stability Index test, mini-Slump Flow, mini-V-Funnel, Mesh-Ring and Free-Fall tests were developed to ascertain the stability and workability of several SCM mixes. Demo ferrocement panels were cast using SCM and Steel Fibers.