Evaluation of the potential use of high performance fiber reinforced cementitious composites in residential construction

Concrete shoring technologies (CST) is a Halifax-based company specializing in commercial concrete shoringand forming systems. From its Dartmouth base, CST conducts business throughout North America and Europe.CST has shown an interest in expanding into forming systems for residential applications in tropical countries.The challenge in these locations is the potential for earthquake and hurricane loading combined with the localeconomic situation in these countries. Typically chosen due to low cost, concrete masonry construction hasbeen shown in countries such as Haiti and Chile to be inadequate under loading conditions.This proposed research project focuses on the development and characterization of an economical cementbased fiber reinforced composite mixture intended for the residential market. The mixture will be characterizedand it's mechanical properties used in computer modeling of a prototype standard building panel. In addition tomodeling, several standard test panels (4' x 8') will be produced and tested under idealized loading conditions(compression, bending and racking loading) to evaluate and calibrate the computer model. The calibratedmodel will then be used to optimize the standard panel to minimize material usage and their estimated cost andsuitability for use in earthquake and hurricane prone areas will be evaluated.This proposed project was developed to answer the fundamental questions that is of interest to CST Can highperformance fiber reinforced cementitious composite provide a viable product for residential application inseismic and tropical countries?). Without the definitive answer to this question, CST would be reluctant topursue additional research and development work due to a lack of knowledge of this type of new material. Apositive outcome would be a strong incentive to apply for a larger collaborative research and developmentgrant where further optimization of the concrete mixture and panel configuration would be proposed.