ISSN: 1304-7191 | E-ISSN: 1304-7205
Enhanced flexural strength evaluation: a comparative study of four-point and semi-circular bending tests on forta-ferro fiber-reinforced concrete
1Department of Civil Engineering, Arak Branch, Islamic Azad University, Arak, 3149968111, Iran
Sigma J Eng Nat Sci 2026; 44(3): 2041-2054 DOI: 10.14744/sigma.2025.00142
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Abstract

This study focuses on the enhancement of mechanical properties of concrete with 0.3% Forta-Ferro synthetic fibers. To assess this, standard compressive, flexural (four-point bending), split tensile and Semi-Circular Bending tests were conducted on 160 laboratory cast specimens with and without fiber reinforcement. Increasing the fiber content increased the compressive strength by 12% (24.9 MPa to 27.9 MPa), flexural strength by 22% (2.92 MPa to 3.58 MPa) and SCB flexural strength by 35% (2.51 MPa to 3.40 MPa). Also, the flexural toughness increased more than 16 times, while the Semi-Circular Bending toughness increased 4.9 times, indicating significant improvements in the absorption of energy after cracking. The Pearson correlation analysis revealed a high correlation between the Semi-circular Bending tests and the standard mechanical properties (r > 0.87). The Semi-Circular Bending test was confirmed to be an economical alternative to assess the flexural performance of Fiber-Reinforced Concrete. The fiber bridging mechanisms responsible for increased ductility and toughness were confirmed by visual inspection. The novelty of this work is to demonstrate the possibility of Semi Circular Bending test for Fiber Reinforced Concrete. It glows. It shows the potential of Forta-Ferro fibers to improve the durability of concrete in infrastructure, including pavements, bridge decks and industrial floors. Further work is recommended to find the optimal fiber dosages and microstructure characterization for further progress in Fiber Reinforced Concrete applications. Further research should be done with different fiber dosages (e.g., 0.1-0.5%). Moreover, the nonlinear effect of fiber dosages on strength, toughness and durability under environmental conditions should be researched.