Failure process of steel–polypropylene hybrid fiber-reinforced concrete based on numerical simulations

Abstract In this work, we studied the failure mechanism of steel–polypropylene hybrid fiber reinforced concrete (HFRC) at mesolevel. The uniaxial tensile test HFRC was simulated using ABAQUS finite element analysis software. Then, relationship between mesoscale process and mechanical properties analyzed based on simulation results. results showed that cracks first appeared in interfacial transition zone then gradually propagated into mortar elements intersected with adjacent cracks, forming major macroscopic cracks. According to crack evolution process, incorporation steel fibers polypropylene changed expansion paths served inhibit expansion. Furthermore, increase volume had a positive effect properties, dominated providing reinforcement compared fibers.