Optimization of shrinkage and crack resistance performance of Engineered Cementitious Composites (ECC)

Optimization of shrinkage and crack resistance performance of Engineered Cementitious Composites (ECC) is investigated due to ECC with higher drying shrinkage. Free shrinkage tests were used to research the influence of fiber content, superplasticizer (SP) and finely ground quartz powder (QP) on the total drying shrinkage value of ECC. Restrained drying shrinkage tests (ring tests) were used to research the effect of fiber content, superplasticizer (SP) and finely ground quartz powder (QP) on crack resistance performance of ECC. The results of the tests show that fiber content has little effect on the total drying shrinkage value of ECC in most cases and SP, QP can slightly reduce it. But fiber content has significant effect on crack resistance performance of ECC and SP, QP can further enhance it. The maximum crack width can be limited to 40~100μm. It is very important for the durability of ECC.