Experimental and Numerical Evaluation of Thin Concrete Slabs Reinforced with Textile Carbon Fiber

Abstract

This study explores using textile carbon fiber as the primary reinforcement in thin structural elements. These elements, characterized by their reduced-thickness concrete, demonstrate exceptional corrosion resistance and improved mechanical properties. Three specimens were analyzed experimentally and numerically, focusing on variations in the fiber content. The flexural behavior was assessed regarding the cracking load, the ultimate load, crack propagation, and the strain in the fiber strips. Doubling the fiber reinforcement resulted in a 35% increase in the maximum load capacity and enhanced rigidity. The experiment results were verified using a nonlinear finite element analysis (NLFEA), which was carried out with the assistance of the ANSYS software. There was only a 7.5% variance, which indicated that there was a high degree of concordance, as demonstrated by the findings. The fact that this is the case lends credence to the dependability of the model in the process of developing an ecologically friendly product.