Double Punch Test to control the energy dissipation in tension of FRC (Barcelona test)

Current testing methods used to measure tensile properties of Fiber Reinforced Concrete (FRC) are mainly based on bending test of beam specimens. They normally show a considerable scatter that makes difficult the quality control, as in particular when such properties are intended to estimate the strength of structural members. In order to improve the material assessment procedure, the Double Punch Test (DPT) has been recovered for the quality control of the tension behaviour of FRC. Former experimental research showed the feasibility of the test and a reduction of the scatter in the values of the tensile strength and of the toughness. This paper describes the results of an experimental program carried out using both DPT and bending test on FRC with different type of fibers, concretes and fiber contents. In addition, a correlation between both tests is proposed. Its application to steel and polyolefin FRC specimens shows very good results.