Behavior of fiber reinforced mortar composites under impact load

Abstract This paper presents results of the experimental study on the behavior of plain and fiber reinforced cement mortars with different fibers under static and impact compressive load. Glass, polypropylene and carbon fibers were used in equal dosage by mass. The impact test was conducted using an impact tower with drop hammer, which represented the modification of the split-Hopkinson pressure bar system, with strain rates ranging from approximately 35 to 60 s-1. The results of the static test and impact test with two different drop heights were compared and discussed. Among other, it has been concluded that the tested fiber reinforced mortars had no greater static and impact strength compared to the plain mortar. Only their ductility was increased at both static and impact failure. Strengths and ductility of all composite specimens were similar, i.e. without the effect of fiber type. With the increase of strain rate, compressive strength is increased and ductility is decreased for all tested specimens.