Parameter optimization on compressive strength of steel fiber reinforced high strength concrete

This paper illustrates parameter optimization of compressive strength of steel fiber reinforced high strength concrete (SFRHSC) by statistical design and analysis of experiments. Among several factors affecting the compressive strength, five parameters that maximize all of the responses have been chosen as the most important ones as age of testing, binder type, binder amount, curing type and steel fiber volume fraction. Taguchi analysis techniques have been used to evaluate L₂₇ (3¹³) Taguchi’s orthogonal array experimental design results. Signal to noise ratio transformation and ANOVA have been applied to the results of experiments in Taguchi analysis. The confirmation runs were conducted for the optimal parameter level combination, which is obtained from the results of the above methodologies. The maximum compressive strength has been observed as around 124 MPa. By using the optimal parameter level combination, the direct tensile strength and flexural strength tests have been conducted. The mean values at the age of 28 days are obtained as 7.5 MPa and 13 MPa respectively. In this study, it is clearly demonstrated that all main factors except steel fiber significantly contribute to the compressive strength of steel fiber reinforced high strength concrete, yet age and binder type are the most significant contributors.