Comparison of testing methods for the shear characterization of steel fiber reinforced concrete

This project addresses the lack of standardization in shear testing for steel fiber-reinforced concrete (SFRC), a material critical for structural stability. Despite its importance, there is no scientific consensus on how to isolate shear stress from other mechanisms like bending, which hinders the validation of theoretical models. The research proposes a comparative experimental campaign using three methodologies: Push-Off, JSCE-SF6, and FIP SHEAR TEST. Specimens with different steel fiber dosages (0, 30, and 50 kg/m3) will be fabricated to analyze crack kinematics and residual strength. Photogrammetry techniques will be employed to precisely measure displacements and crack openings. The results will establish technical criteria for selecting the most accurate test method, facilitating the validation of shear behavior models. This advancement will contribute to improving the structural design of buildings and bridges, reducing the risk of failure, and optimizing material usage in civil engineering.<br/><br/><b>Goal</b>: <br/>To compare the Push-Off, JSCE-SF6, and FIP SHEAR TEST methods for characterizing the shear behavior of steel fiber-reinforced concrete. The goal is to determine which test configuration most effectively decouples shear stresses from other structural forces.<br/><br/><b>Research lines</b>: <br/>Analysis, development and improvement of materials, tools and techniques for use in construction, industry and various applications