A four-exponential model to describe the behaviour of fibre reinforced concrete

The paper reports on a proposed four-exponential (four-e) model to describe the behaviour of fibre reinforced concrete (FRC) in flexure. The four-e model was found to be capable to model a variety of curves and has the advantage of being able to model the complete load-deformation response of FRC with one continuous function. The four-e model is also mathematically efficient and differentiation and integration can be readily applied. In addition, a rational and objective procedure by applying the model has been proposed increasing the potential of the four-e model. A comparison was carried out between theoretical and experimental load-deflection curves obtained for steel fibre reinforced concrete beams under three point bending. It was found that the four-e model can satistifactorily describe the experimental load-deflection curves. The principles applied for the comparison may possibly be applicable to FRC subjected to other types of loading.