Project 2.3: Avalanches During Flexure of Fiber Reinforced Concrete Beams

Project Abstract:

The problem we are trying to solve is to accurately quantify the avalanches occurred during the flexure of fiber-reinforced concrete. We will use high temporal resolution measurements to measure the sliding avalanches between fibers and concrete during flexure. The critical avalanche behavior evolved during failure is examined using a mean field model. The problem is important because avalanches are closely related to the gradual failure of concrete structures under different loading. Accurate determination of the failure stage is critical to the maintenance and repair of transportation infrastructure and extend its durability. Every year, the construction and maintenance costs for the US roadway infrastructure are approximately $100 billion dollars.

Sponsors:
University Transportation Centers Program, Department of Transportation
University of Vermont

Downloadable Documents