New generation of Fibre Reinforced Precast Segment: ECo Efficiency and Performance

The use of Fibre-Reinforced Concrete (FRC) allows to reduce or eliminate the traditional reinforcement in the precast segment production. Over the last few years, the use of this technology has increased. One of the aspect that are boosting the use of FRC in segmental linings is the introduction of guidelines for the design of FRC. In 2013, the fib presented the Model Code 2010 in which a specific part related to FRC is inserted. Since the Fib Bulletin 83 provide detail recommendation to support designer, client and contractor to design FRC precast segment.

Many technical report shows the results of one point load and one bending tests carried out in on precast fiber reinforced concrete segments. The load history, the load –displacement diagrams, the load – crack opening and the evolution of the crack pattern are highlighted and pictures related to each test are summarized in this paper report Today (FRC) is often used for concrete structures subject severe exposure conditions e.g. bored tunnels exposed to saline ground water containing high levels of sulphates.

The use of SFRC for segmental lining along with the use of supplementary cementitious materials as partial replacement of OPC has significant beneficial effects with regard to CO₂ emission. The return of experience of many project confirms that durability and sustainability go hand to hand. This paper presents the latest developments in concrete technology achieved on recent tunnel projects using fibre reinforced precast segment to achieved high performance, 120 years design life and ecofriendly segment.