The Influence of Polymer Fibers on the Properties of Foam Concrete with a Complex Nanomodifying Additive: Finite...

Modern construction extensively utilizes foam concrete (FC) because of its distinct characteristics. However, its application is limited by its low strength properties. Developing high-strength FC by strengthening the matrix with various additives and incorporating various types of fibers into the composition is one of the most rational trends, consistent with the concept of sustainable and environmentally friendly construction. This study explores the impact of diverse polymer fibers on the strength and deformation characteristics of fiber-reinforced foam concrete (FRFC). The concrete's matrix is strengthened by a composite nanomodifying additive. A FEM model was developed, and experimental studies of the compressive and flexural strength of FRFC were conducted. In the numerical study, the FC matrix is described by the Menetrey-Willam model. Parameter calibration and model verification demonstrated good agreement with experimental data. Experiments and numerical simulations proved that polypropylene fibers enhance compressive strength by as much as 20% and flexural strength by 80%. The stress-strain condition of FRFC was numerically analyzed, considering the influence of steel, carbon, and glass fibers. It was shown that high-modulus polymer fibers quickly lose their adhesive properties and impair the deformation properties of the composite compared to polypropylene fibers.