Reinforced ECC Structural Applications

The substitution of concrete matrix with ECC in R/C structural members has lead to significantly enhanced performance of reinforced ECC structural composites due to the ultra-ductile deformation behavior of ECC in tension.

Research activities at the ACE-MRL currently focus on the deformation behavior of R/ECC flexural members subjected to reversed cyclic loading. Investigations provide evidence for improved structural behavior of R/ECC members over that of R/C members in terms of reinforcement detailing requirements, ductility, shear resistance, buckling resistance of longitudinal reinforcement, damage tolerance and minimum repair needs after undergoing excessive deformation. Special attention is placed on the interaction of ECC with conventional steel reinforcement as well as Fiber Reinforced Polymer (FRP) reinforcement and its effect on the behavior of R/ECC members.