A fractal-based approach for cracking characterization and whole process prediction exploration of PP fiber reinforced ECC containing sustainable ingredients
Guojin Tan, Zhiqing Zhu, Wensheng Wang, Xin He
Abstract
This study focuses on an eco-friendly engineered cementitious composite (SSPP-ECC) using high-content fly ash (FA) as a cementitious cleaner production alternative, waste superfine sand as silica sand replacement and economical polypropylene (PP) fiber as expensive polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fiber replacement. The lack of quantitative sustainability assessment and prediction of high ductility SSPP-ECC has impeded the engineering application of SSPP-ECC. This study presents a fractal-based cracking whole process preliminary analysis for SSPP-ECC structural life cycle assessment in order to promote a wider application of SSPP-ECC as large-deformation structural materials, as well as develop the application of fractal geometry in ECC by novel evaluation modes. A new and SSPP-ECC with up to 60% cement replacement by fly ash was designed, followed by a four-point flexural test accompanying with surface crack monitoring. The typical deformation hardening SSPP-ECC has been proved to have engineering potential in improving the structural safety due to good deformation following and crack controlling capacities. It is recommended to combine the fractal dimension and average crack width to reflect the overall fracture energy in the four-point flexural failure process of SSPP-ECC, which would have reliable and effective evaluation effects. Based on the correlation analysis results, the quantitative assessment and prediction models of cracking whole process could be established for eco-friendly SSPP-ECC structural life cycle assessment, which can be benefit to the structural life cycle assessment of SSPP-ECC engineering application based on non-destructive parameters of load and deflection. The eco-friendly SSPP-ECC, as a potential cleaner production, not only is a technically reasonable strategy, but also would lead to significant sustainability benefits with a growing level of environmental awareness.