Ductile fiber reinforced cementitious composites (FRCC) is usually designed by using high performance short fibers and allowing sufficient fiber-matrix bond strength, i.e. by enhancing the fiber bridging mechanism. However, matrices of high bond strength usually display high strength but low…
Ductile fiber reinforced cementitious composites (FRCC) is usually designed by using high performance short fibers and allowing sufficient fiber-matrix bond strength, i.e. by enhancing the fiber bridging mechanism. However, matrices of high bond strength usually display high strength but low fracture toughness. In such a case, fibers may not be able to effectively bridge the initial crack and propagation of the crack is relatively brittle. Hence, an approach is proposed in which artificial microcracks are smeared in the matrix to optimize fracture toughness while preserving sufficient bond strength. Experiments were carried out in which alternative sources of microcracks were introduced into the composite admixture. Such approach showed promising capabilities for controlling ductility of the composite material, but its efficiency depends on suitable mix proportions. The experimental analysis was intended for development of procedures for optimization of the composite mixture for higher ductility, as well as identifying key parameters to control ductility of the composite.