Tensile Properties of Ferrocement with Modified UHPC (Ultra High-Performance Concrete) Matrix and Fiberglass-Mesh Reinforcement

Ultrahigh-performance concrete (UHPC) is an innovative construction material that offers substantial advantages over conventional concrete. The typical composition of UHPC includes a blend of cement, silica fume, quartz powder/silica flour, fine sand, steel fiber, high-range water reducer, and water. UHPC exhibits exceptional resistance to water penetration and chemical attacks, extending the service life of structures exposed to harsh environments, such as marine infrastructure. Ferrocement composed of a UHPC matrix is a cutting-edge composite material that combines the flexibility and strength of ferrocement with the superior properties of UHPC. However, the challenges of UHPC use in Indonesia include its cost and the availability of materials. In this study, the tensile properties of ferrocement-UHPC were compared using two types of reinforcement: welded galvanized wire mesh and fiberglass mesh. Ferrocement- UHPC was subjected to tensile testing using dog bone specimens under ASTM C307 standards. The UHPC matrix utilized local materials, including micro calcium carbonate, fly ash, and local sand of two-level fineness. The results showed that Ferrocement-UHPC reinforced with a fiberglass mesh required more layers than reinforced galvanized-welded wire mesh.