Finite Element Modeling of the Steel Fiber Reinforced Concrete Notched Beam with DRAMIX 3D 65/35

This chapter explores the significant improvements in concrete properties achieved by reinforcing it with steel fibers, specifically DRAMIX 3D 65/35. The study focuses on notched beams subjected to three-point bending tests, comparing plain concrete with steel fiber-reinforced concrete (SFRC). Experimental tests and numerical simulations using a nonlinear finite element analysis package reveal that adding 2% steel fibers enhances the tensile fracture energy and overall behavior of SFRC. The results show a substantial increase in peak load capacity and ductility, with SFRC beams exhibiting a 237.8% increase in strength compared to plain concrete beams. The numerical model accurately predicts the experimental results, demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed constitutive laws and fracture softening functions. The chapter also provides detailed insights into crack patterns, load-displacement behavior, and the role of steel fibers in enhancing the structural integrity of SFRC. The findings highlight the potential of SFRC in various applications, including heavy-duty slabs, tunneling structures, and conventional reinforced concrete structures, making it a compelling read for those interested in advanced concrete technologies.