Capillary Absorption and Chloride Penetration into High-Performance Fiber-Reinforced Cement-Based Composites (HPFRCC) as Influenced by Tensile Stress and Self-Healing

Abstract High-performance fiber-reinforced cement-based composites (HPFRCC) can be characterized by low porosity and fine pores as compared to normal concrete and therefore this interesting material absorbs little water or aqueous salt solutions if exposed to aggressive environment. These properties are indications for excellent durability and long service life of structural members or structures made with this high-performance material. In practice, however, most structures and structural elements are designed to be load bearing. The influence of an applied tensile stress on capillary absorption was investigated and results are presented in this contribution. It was found that the coefficient of capillary absorption increases rapidly if a tensile stress exceeding half of the tensile strength is applied. This observation has to be taken into consideration if HPFRCC is to be applied in aggressive environment. The maximum admissible stress must be reduced accordingly.