Bending Performance and Evaluation of Tensile Properties of Polyester Fiber Reinforced Ductile Fiber Reinforced Cementitious Composite (PES-DFRCC)

Introduction/Objective This study investigates the flexural and equivalent tensile behaviour of polyester fiber-reinforced ductile fiber-reinforced cementitious composite (PES-DFRCC) incorporating commercially available Indian-manufactured polyester fibers. The influence of fiber volume fraction on the flexural response and equivalent tensile properties was evaluated through four-point bending tests and inverse section analysis. This study presents the first experimental investigation of PES-DFRCC using this methodology and establishes its equivalent tensile stress–strain behaviour. Methods Beam specimens containing different polyester fiber volume fractions were tested under four-point bending in accordance with ISO 21914:2019. Load, axial deformation, and deflection measurements were recorded, and tensile properties were determined through inverse section analysis based on the observed flexural response. Results The PES-DFRCC specimens exhibited multiple microcracking and pronounced deflection-hardening behavior under bending. The evaluated average tensile strength ranged from 0.34 to 2.41 MPa, while the corresponding average ultimate tensile strain varied from 0.276% to 0.450%, depending on the fiber content. Discussion The formation of multiple microcracks contributed to enhanced ductility and energy absorption capacity, indicating the effectiveness of polyester fibers in improving the post-cracking performance of cementitious composites. Conclusion The newly developed PES-DFRCC demonstrated significant ductile behavior, characterized by multiple cracking, deflection hardening, and improved tensile performance. These findings highlight the potential of polyester fiber reinforcement for developing durable and ductile cementitious materials for structural applications.