Paper 1. Properties and applications of fibre reinforced concrete. Paper 2. Mechanics of fibre reinforced concrete. Paper 3. Vibration damping in concrete structures

Paper 1. Properties and applications of fibre reinforced concrete: It is now well established that fibrous reinforcement of cement matrices can improve the tensile strength properties of the composite, and import to it qualities of crack control toughness, ductility and impact resistance. Several applications can benefit from these unusual properties of fibrous concrete. In this paper, the properties of fibres and of their fibrous composites and some of their applications are discussed. The limitations of the fibre reinforced cement composites, the problems of production and control and of durability are emphasized. It is suggested that the advantages of new materials can only be fully utilised by new design thinking. Paper 2. Mechanics of fibre reinforced concrete. Concrete has low tensile strength, limited ductility and little resistance to crack propagation. Considerable improvement in tensile strength can be obtained by fibre reinforcement which inhibits propagation of cracks originating from internal flaws, and imparts qualities of crack control, toughness, ductility and impact resistance. The mechanics of fibre reinforcement, and the various factors which influence the effectiveness of the reinforcement and the efficiency of stress transfer are discussed in this paper. Paper 3. Vibration damping in concrete structures Vibration dainping in concrete structures depends upon the type of construction, its mounting, and the properties of the material. The damping characteristies of concrete, the method of improving the damping of structural members and of reducing structural vibrations are discussed