Investigation of the dynamic mechanical response of corroded ultra-high performance fiber reinforced concrete (UHPFRC) with initial defects

This study addresses the dynamic mechanical response of the corroded ultra-high-performance fiber-reinforced concrete (UHPFRC) with initial defects, considering the possibility of corrosion deterioration induced by various pre-existing cracks during the long-term service life. For this purpose, an integrated accelerated corrosion method and Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB)/high-speed camera etc. techniques are employed. Results show that increasing pre-impacting damage promotes the crack density and maximum width by 32.4%–62.3 % and 1.11–1.8 times, respectively. In terms of mechanical properties, coupling damages of initial defects and corrosion have adverse effects on the dynamic mechanical response. Typical fib Model Code 2010 applies to predict the DIF evolution of the corroded UHPFRC with initial defects. Numerous shear cracks are created at an angle along the weak interface as the corroded specimens with initial defects are again subjected to axial loading, revealing the associated failure mechanism. These results shed light on the dynamic response of corroded UHPFRC containing various initial defects and the failure mechanism gives some reference to service status evaluation.