Tensile behaviour identification in Ultra-High Performance Fibre Reinforced Cementitious Composites: indirect tension tests and back analysis of flexural test results

Within the framework of the European Programme Horizon 2020, the Research Project ReSHEALience is currently running with the objective of developing a new approach for the design of structures exposed to extremely aggressive environments, based on Durability Assessment based Design and Life Cycle Analysis. To this aim, new advanced Ultra-High Performance Fibre Reinforced Cementitious Composites with improved durability, called Ultra-High Durability Concretes, are under investigation to characterize their tensile response in both ordinary and very aggressive conditions. In this context, the first step is to develop an effective approach for identifying the main parameters describing the overall behaviour in tension. In the present study, indirect tension tests have been performed via two techniques, based on Double Edge Wedge Splitting and 4-Point Bending Tests. Starting from the test results, a combined experimental-numerical identification procedure has been implemented in order to evaluate the effective material behaviour in direct tension in terms of stress–strain law. In the paper, the mechanical characterization for the reference mix is reported so to describe the identification procedure adopted.