Fibre Reinforced Concrete (FRC)

Annex to Section 8 of CSA S6

Draft

June 7, 2018

For Technical Committee and Public Review

For Technical Committee and Public Review

FRC Canadian Code
Table of Contents

Underlined text will be moved to the commentary section of the annex

Note: This Annex is not a mandatory part of this Code.

A8.1. Scope ................................................................................................................ 1

A8.2. Definitions......................................................................................................... 1
A8.3. Abbreviations and symbols ............................................................................ 2
A8.3.1. Abbreviations ............................................................................................................................. 2
A8.3.2. Symbols ..................................................................................................................................... 2
A8.4. FRC Materials ................................................................................................... 5
A8.4.1. General ...................................................................................................................................... 5
A8.4.2. Fibres ........................................................................................................................................ 6
A8.4.3. Classification of FRC ................................................................................................................. 6
A8.4.3.1. General .............................................................................................................................. 6
A8.4.3.2. TSFRC .............................................................................................................................. 6
A8.4.3.3. THFRC .............................................................................................................................. 7
A8.4.4. Compressive strength ............................................................................................................... 8
A8.4.5. Tensile behaviour ...................................................................................................................... 9
A8.4.5.1. General .............................................................................................................................. 9
A8.4.5.2. Cracking strength .............................................................................................................. 9
A8.4.5.3. TSFRC post-cracking properties ..................................................................................... 10
A8.4.5.4. THFRC post-cracking properties ..................................................................................... 11
A8.4.5.5. Determination of tensile properties ................................................................................. 11
A8.4.6. Fibre efficiency ........................................................................................................................ 19
A8.4.7. Modulus of Elasticity ............................................................................................................... 20
A8.4.8. Shrinkage ................................................................................................................................ 20
A8.4.9. Creep ....................................................................................................................................... 21
A8.4.10. Material resistance factors .................................................................................................. 21
A8.5. Limit States ..................................................................................................... 21
A8.5.1. General .................................................................................................................................... 21
A8.5.2. Serviceability limit states ......................................................................................................... 21
A8.5.2.1. Cracking .......................................................................................................................... 21
A8.5.2.2. Deformation ..................................................................................................................... 21
A8.5.2.3. Stress .............................................................................................................................. 22
A8.5.3. Fatigue limit state .................................................................................................................... 22
A8.6. Design considerations ................................................................................... 22

For Technical Committee and Public Review

FRC Canadian Code
 A8.6.1. General .................................................................................................................................... 22
A8.6.2. Fibre dispersion ....................................................................................................................... 23
A8.6.3. Restraint .................................................................................................................................. 23
A8.6.4. Imposed deformations ............................................................................................................. 23
A8.6.5. Construction and cold joints .................................................................................................... 24
A8.7. Prestressing ................................................................................................... 24
A8.7.1. General .................................................................................................................................... 24
A8.7.2. Concrete strength at transfer .................................................................................................. 24
A8.7.3. Loss of prestress ..................................................................................................................... 24
A8.7.3.1. Creep ............................................................................................................................... 24
A8.7.3.2. Shrinkage ........................................................................................................................ 25
A8.8. Flexural and axial loads ................................................................................. 25
A8.8.1. General .................................................................................................................................... 25
A8.8.2. Assumptions ............................................................................................................................ 25
A8.8.2.1. TSFRC ............................................................................................................................ 25
A8.8.2.2. THFRC ............................................................................................................................ 25
A8.8.3. Simplified design tension models for FRC .............................................................................. 26
A8.8.3.1. TSFRC ............................................................................................................................ 26
A8.8.3.2. THFRC ............................................................................................................................ 29
A8.8.4. Flexural components ............................................................................................................... 29
A8.8.4.1. General ............................................................................................................................ 29
A8.8.4.2. Cracking moment ............................................................................................................ 32
A8.8.4.3. Flexural resistance at ULS with reinforcement in the tensile zone ................................. 32
A8.8.4.4. Flexural resistance at the Ultimate Limit State with FRC only in the tensile zone .......... 34
A8.8.5. Compression components ...................................................................................................... 34
A8.8.5.1. General ............................................................................................................................ 34
A8.8.6. Tension components ............................................................................................................... 34
A8.8.7. Bursting and spalling ............................................................................................................... 35
A8.9. Shear and Torsion.......................................................................................... 35
A8.9.1. General .................................................................................................................................... 35
A8.9.2. Design shear strength of flexural members for TSFRC .......................................................... 35
A8.9.3. Contribution to shear strength by steel fibres for TSFRC ....................................................... 36
A8.9.3.1. Design by refined calculation .......................................................................................... 36
A8.9.3.2. Design by simplified calculation ...................................................................................... 36
A8.9.4. Design shear strength of sections without steel reinforcing .................................................... 37
A8.10. Strut-and-tie-modeling ............................................................................... 37
A8.10.1. General ................................................................................................................................ 37
A8.11. Durability ..................................................................................................... 37

For Technical Committee and Public Review

FRC Canadian Code
 A8.11.1. General ................................................................................................................................ 37
A8.11.2. Durability limits for UHPFRC ............................................................................................... 38
A8.11.3. Production and delivery ....................................................................................................... 38
A8.11.4. Placing, finishing and curing ............................................................................................... 38
A8.11.5. Concrete cover and tolerances ........................................................................................... 38
A8.11.6. Waterproofing ...................................................................................................................... 39
A8.12. Control of Cracking .................................................................................... 39
A8.12.1. General ................................................................................................................................ 39
A8.12.2. Distribution of reinforcement ............................................................................................... 40
A8.12.3. Reinforcement ..................................................................................................................... 40
A8.12.3.1. Maximum design crack width of TSFRC ......................................................................... 40
A8.12.3.2. Calculation of crack width ............................................................................................... 40
A8.12.4. Crack control in the side faces of beams ............................................................................ 41
A8.12.5. Shrinkage and temperature reinforcement ......................................................................... 41
A8.13. Deformation ................................................................................................. 41
A8.13.1. General ................................................................................................................................ 41
A8.13.2. Deflections and rotations ..................................................................................................... 42
A8.13.2.1. Simplified method ............................................................................................................ 42
A8.14. Reinforcing Details ..................................................................................... 42
A8.14.1. General ................................................................................................................................ 42
A8.14.2. Spacing of reinforcement .................................................................................................... 42
A8.14.2.1. Reinforcing bars .............................................................................................................. 42
A8.14.2.2. Tendons .......................................................................................................................... 43
A8.14.3. Transverse reinforcement for compression components .................................................... 43
A8.15. Development and Splices .......................................................................... 43
A8.15.1. Development ....................................................................................................................... 43
A8.15.1.1. General ............................................................................................................................ 43
A8.15.2. Development of reinforcing bars and deformed wire in tension .......................................... 43
A8.15.2.1. General ............................................................................................................................ 43
A8.16. Anchorage zone reinforcement ................................................................. 44
A8.16.1. General ................................................................................................................................ 44
A8.16.2. Post-tensioning anchorage zones ....................................................................................... 44
A8.16.2.1. General ............................................................................................................................ 44
A8.16.2.2. General zone – approximate method .............................................................................. 44
A8.16.3. Pretensioning anchorage zones .......................................................................................... 44
A8.17. Seismic design and detailing ..................................................................... 44
A8.18. Bridge decks ............................................................................................... 45
A8.18.1. Full depth FRC slabs ........................................................................................................... 45

For Technical Committee and Public Review

FRC Canadian Code
 A8.18.2. Waffle decks ........................................................................................................................ 45
A8.18.3. Distribution reinforcement ................................................................................................... 46
A8.19. FRC overlays ............................................................................................... 46
A8.19.1. General ................................................................................................................................ 46
A8.19.1.1. Effect of restraint ............................................................................................................. 47
A8.19.1.2. Delamination at or near Interface .................................................................................... 47
A8.19.1.3. Surface preparation ......................................................................................................... 47
A8.19.1.4. Construction joints ........................................................................................................... 48
A8.19.2. FRC overlays with compressive strength of less than 120 MPa ......................................... 48
A8.19.3. THFRC overlays with compressive strength equal to or greater than 120 MPa
(UHPFRC) ........................................................................................................................... 48
A8.20. UHPFRC field cast connections for precast bridge elements................. 49
A8.20.1. General ................................................................................................................................ 49
A8.20.2. Maximum flow length .......................................................................................................... 49
A8.20.3. Closure strips between deck-level prefabricated bridge elements ..................................... 49
A8.20.3.1. Minimum embedment length ........................................................................................... 49
A8.20.3.2. Lap splices ...................................................................................................................... 50
A8.20.3.3. Reinforcing detailing ........................................................................................................ 50
A8.20.3.4. Shear keys ...................................................................................................................... 50
A8.20.3.5. Surface preparation ......................................................................................................... 51
A8.20.4. Interface connections between prefabricated bridge decks and supporting girders ........... 51
A8.20.4.1. General ............................................................................................................................ 51
A8.20.4.2. Surface preparation ......................................................................................................... 51
A8.21. Link slabs for bridge decks ....................................................................... 52
A8.21.1. General ................................................................................................................................ 52
A8.21.2. Fibre, dosage and required tensile properties .................................................................... 52
A8.21.3. Design of FRC link slab section for flexure ......................................................................... 53
A8.22. Production of FRC ...................................................................................... 54
A8.22.1. General ................................................................................................................................ 54
A8.22.2. Fibre content determination ................................................................................................ 54
References ................................................................................................................... 55

For Technical Committee and Public Review

FRC Canadian Code
1 A8.1. Scope
2 This Annex specifies requirements for the design of structural components that are made of precast or
3 cast-in-place fibre reinforced concrete (FRC) with prestressed or non-prestressed steel. The components
4 covered by this Section may be prestressed with pretensioned steel, grouted post-tensioned steel, or
5 both.
6 The Annex covers the behaviour of tension softening FRC (TSFRC) and tension hardening FRC
7 (THFRC). This Annex covers the use of steel fibres only, except in those clauses where the use of
8 synthetic fibres is specifically indicated.
9 Unless otherwise specified in this Annex, Section 8 requirements shall apply.
10 The Annex covers design requirements for normal strength to ultra-high performance fibre reinforced
11 concrete. Material requirements for fibre reinforced concretes with a minimum compressive strength of
12 120 MPa are given in Annex U, Ultra-High Performance Concrete, of CSA A23.1.
13 The Annex document is intended for steel fibre reinforced concrete only. Where synthetic fibres are
14 permitted, this is specifically indicated in the Annex clauses.
15 Similar to the scope of Section 8, the Annex only covers provisions for steel prestressed or non-
16 prestressed reinforcing. Several of the clauses provided in the Annex can be applied to other types of
17 reinforcing, however, it is the Engineer’s responsibility to verify which clauses apply. The use of
18 reinforcing other than steel requires approval by the Owner.
19 This first edition of the Annex covers axial, bending and shear design models and gives design guidance
20 for specific applications. Several aspects of Section 8 of S6 have not been altered in this edition of the
21 Annex, for example strut-and-tie models and anchorage zones. Refinement of models and addition of
22 models may be considered in future editions of the Annex.

23 A8.2. Definitions
24 The following definitions apply in this Annex:
25 Fibre reinforced concrete (FRC) – A composite material characterized by a concrete matrix and discrete
26 (discontinuous) fibres. Fibres may be made of steel or polymers.
27 Tension hardening FRC (THFRC) – A fibre reinforced concrete that shows an increase in tensile
28 strength after cracking up to a specific deformation while subjected to uniaxial direct tensile
29 forces.
30 Tension softening FRC (TSFRC) – A fibre reinforced concrete that shows a decrease in its
31 tensile strength after cracking while subjected to uniaxial direct tensile forces.
32 Material identity card – A document that provides the details of the components, mixing instructions,
33 curing instructions and properties of a specified UHPC mix. Refer to CSA A23.1 Annex U.
34 Ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) — A cementitious composite material with enhanced
35 compressive strength and durability compared to high performance concretes. In accordance with CSA
36 A23.1, UHPC has a minimum compressive strength of 120 MPa. Refer to CSA A23.1 Annex U.
37 Ultra-high performance fibre reinforced concrete (UHPFRC) — A fibre reinforced UHPC.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 1

FRC Canadian Code
38 A8.3. Abbreviations and symbols
39 A8.3.1. Abbreviations

40 The following abbreviations apply in this Annex:

41 CMOD – Crack mouth opening displacement
42 FLS – Fatigue limit state
43 FRC – Fibre reinforced concrete
44 SFRC – Steel fibre reinforced concrete
45 SLS – Serviceability limit state
46 SSD – Saturated surface dry
47 THFRC – Tension hardening FRC
48 TSFRC – Tension softening FRC
49 UHPC – Ultra-high performance concrete
50 UHPFRC – Ultra-high performance fibre-reinforced concrete
51 ULS – Ultimate limit state

52 A8.3.2. Symbols

53 Ace = Effective concrete area for computing the design crack spacing, mm 2
54 As = Area of reinforcing bars that controls crack opening and spacing in the tensile region of the
55 element, mm2
56 cr = Clear cover to flexural reinforcement, mm
57 ccr = Distance from extreme compression fibre to neutral axis of a cracked TSFRC reinforced section
58 at SLS, mm
59 d0 = Horizontal distance from midspan to the crack tip location in a bending test (averaged from both
60 the front and back faces of the specimen) used for THFRC inverse analysis, mm
61 Ec0 = Measured modulus of elasticity in tension, MPa
62 fc = Concrete stress in the extreme compression fibre in bending, MPa
63 fcrm = Average cracking strength of the FRC matrix, MPa
64 fF = Tension force divided by the area between the crack tip and crack mouth in the TSFRC inverse
65 analysis, MPa
66 fFi = Post-cracking tensile strength at crack width wi, MPa
67 fFp = Tensile strength at peak force in bending test for TSFRC inverse analysis, MPa
68 fFs = Specified post-cracking tensile strength at SLS, MPa
69 fFm = Specified post-cracking tensile strength at ULS for TSFRC at crack width wm; post-cracking
70 tensile strength after crack localisation for THFRC at a crack width wm, MPa
71 fFu = Specified ultimate tensile strength for THFRC, MPa

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 2

FRC Canadian Code
72 fs = Stress in reinforcement used to calculate the design crack width, MPa
73 ft = Post-cracking tensile design strength (Figure CA.8.8.2 and CA8.8.3), MPa
74 fw = Specified post-cracking tensile strength of FRC corresponding to a crack opening displacement
75 wv for shear strength calculations, MPa
76 ht = depth of tensile FRC stress block, mm
77 K1 = Parameter in TSFRC and THFRC inverse analyses
78 K2 = Parameter in THFRC inverse analysis
79 K3 = Parameter in THFRC inverse analysis
80 K4 = Parameter in THFRC inverse analysis
81 K5 = Parameter in THFRC inverse analysis
82 Kδ = Factor accounting for change in neutral axis depth in flexure prism (Equation A8.4.11)
83 kb = Bond parameter for computing the design crack spacing
84 kc = Strain gradient for computing the design crack spacing
85 k2 = Parameter in TSFRC inverse analysis
86 L = Span in four-point bending test for both TSFRC and THFRC inverse analyses
87 ℓr = Reference length for TSFRC at SLS and ULS, mm
88 ℓF = Fibre length, mm
89 ℓs = Lap-splice length, mm
90 Mrm = Factored flexural resistance when εtm for TSFRC or γF εtu for THFRC is reached at the extreme
91 tension fibre of the member before the ultimate compressive concrete strain εcu has been reached
92 at the extreme compression fibre, N-mm
93 Mru = Factored flexural resistance when ultimate compressive concrete strain εcu is reached at the
94 extreme compression fibre of the member, N-mm
95 Mry = Factored flexural resistance corresponding to yielding of reinforcing bars or prestressing in the
96 tension zone, N-mm
97 Mr0 = Factored flexural resistance of a section based on only the reinforcing bars and/or prestressing,
98 without considering the contribution of fibres, N-mm
99 M1 = Maximum flexural resistance, N-mm
100 P = Load measured in four-point bending tests to determine tensile properties of TSFRC and THFRC
101 through inverse analysis, N
102 Pcr = Cracking load in the four-point bending test for the TSFRC inverse analysis, N
103 Pm = Load in the four-point bending test corresponding to 𝛿𝑚 for the TSFRC inverse analysis, N
104 Pmax = Maximum load in the four-point bending test used for the THFRC inverse analysis, N
105 Pp = Maximum load in the four-point bending test for the TSFRC inverse analysis, N
106 Ps = Load in the four-point bending test corresponding to 𝛿𝑠 for the TSFRC inverse analysis, N

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 3

FRC Canadian Code
107 P1 = Load in the four-point bending test defined by the intersection of the load-deflection curve with a
108 straight line from the origin with a slope corresponding to 75% of the initial slope S75 in THFRC
109 inverse analysis, N
110 P2 = Load in the four-point bending test defined by the intersection of the load-deflection curve with a
111 straight line from the origin with a slope corresponding to 40% of the initial slope S40 in THFRC
112 inverse analysis, N
113 P3 = Load in the four-point bending test corresponding to 97% of the maximum load from the load-
114 deflection curve in THFRC inverse analysis, N
115 P4 = Load in the four-point bending test corresponding to 80% of P3. in THFRC inverse analysis, N
116 sd = Design crack spacing, mm
117 𝑆𝑜 = initial slope of the load-deflection curve used in the THFRC inverse analysis, N/mm
118 𝑆40 = 40% of the initial slope of the load-deflection curve used in the THFRC inverse analysis, N/mm
119 𝑆75 = 75% of the initial slope of the load-deflection curve used in the THFRC inverse analysis, N/mm
120 t = Thickness of a tension member, mm
121 T = Internal tension force in TSFRC inverse analysis, N
122 Vfib = Contribution of the fibres to the shear resistance
123 Vrmax = Upper limit of the shear resistance, N
124 w = Crack width, mm
125 wd = Design crack width for crack width determination, mm
126 wi = Crack width associated with the post-cracking strength fFi, mm
127 wm = Maximum crack width for which fibre contribution is considered at ULS for TSFRC associated
128 with fFm, mm
129 ws = Crack width at SLS for TSFRC, mm
130 wv = Crack opening displacement in the transverse direction for shear resistance determination, mm
131 w0 = Crack opening displacement in softening model of THFRC (used in inverse analysis only), mm
132 x = Depth to the crack tip in TSFRC inverse analysis, mm
133 z = Internal lever arm in TSFRC inverse analysis, mm
134 β = Empirical coefficient to assess the mean strain over sd depending on the type of loading used to
135 calculate the design crack width
136 𝛿 = Displacement at mid-span measured in four-point bending tests to determine tensile properties of
137 TSFRC and THFRC through inverse analysis, mm
138 𝛿𝑚 = Displacement corresponding to the crack width wm in TSFRC inverse analysis, mm
139 𝛿𝑝 = Displacement corresponding to the load Pp in TSFRC inverse analysis, mm
140 𝛿𝑠 = Displacement corresponding to the crack width ws in TSFRC inverse analysis, mm
141 𝛿1 = Displacement corresponding to the load P1 in the four-point bending test for the THFRC inverse
142 analysis, mm

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 4

FRC Canadian Code
143 𝛿3 = Displacement corresponding to the load P3 in the four-point bending test for the THFRC inverse
144 analysis, mm
145 𝛿4 = Displacement corresponding to the load P4 in the four-point bending test for the THFRC inverse
146 analysis, mm
147 𝛿4 ∗ = Corrected displacement corresponding to the load P4 in THFRC inverse analysis, mm
148 εc = Strain at the extreme compression fibre in bending
149 εcm = Average concrete strain in TSFRC over sd
150 εcr = Strain at the Average cracking strength of the FRC matrix εcr = fcrm / Ec
151 εcu = Ultimate compressive concrete strain (= 0.0035)
152 εsm = Average reinforcement strain in TSFRC over sd
153 εt = Strain at the extreme tension fibre in bending
154 εtm = Specified maximum design strain at ULS for TSFRC
155 εts = Tensile strain at SLS; as defined in Clause A8.8.3
156 εtu = Specified ultimate tensile strain for THFRC
157 εt0 = Computed strain value in THFRC inverse analysis
158 εy = Strain at yielding of reinforcing bars or prestressing
159 ε1 = Maximum tensile strain in a member used for computing the design crack spacing
160 ε2 = Minimum tensile strain in a member used for computing the design crack spacing
161 γF = Fibre efficiency factor
162 μ = Curvature ductility ratio μ = ψ1 / ψy
163 μmin = Minimum curvature ductility ratio
164 𝜌𝑐𝑒 = Ratio of the area 𝐴𝑠 of reinforcing bars on the flexural tension side of a member to the effective
165 concrete area 𝐴𝑐𝑒 for computing the design crack spacing
166 ψ = Curvature, 1/mm
167 ψa = Curvature at a service load 𝑀𝑎 used to compute deformation in Section A8.13, 1/mm.
168 ψm = Curvature at εt = εtm for TSFRC or εt = γF εtu for THFRC when εc < εcu, 1/mm
169 ψu = Curvature at εc = εcu, 1/mm
170 ψy = Curvature at yielding of the reinforcing bars, 1/mm
171 ψ1 = Curvature at the maximum resistance moment M1, 1/mm
172 ϕF = Material resistance factor applied to the post-cracking tensile strength of FRC

173 A8.4. FRC Materials

174 A8.4.1. General

175 The requirements of Clause 8.4 shall apply except as noted in the following clauses.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 5

FRC Canadian Code
176 Materials, methods of material testing, and construction practices shall comply with CSA A23.1/A23.2
177 unless otherwise specified in this Annex. CSA A23.1 Annex U shall apply to FRC with specified
178 compressive strengths equal to or greater than 120 MPa unless noted otherwise.
179 While CSA A23.1 Annex U was written specifically for UHPFRC, many of its clauses are also applicable
180 for FRC with specified compressive strength less than 120 MPa.

181 A8.4.2. Fibres

182 Unless otherwise specified in this Annex, only steel fibres shall be used in structural applications.
183 Synthetic fibres may be used for specific non-structural applications based on empirical or experimental
184 evidence only if Approved by the Owner.
185 Steel fibres shall have a minimum tensile strength of 1000 MPa.
186 CSA A23.1 and CSA A23.1 Annex U provide information on fibre requirements.
187 Fibres are defined by shape, material, and dimensions. FRC performance is affected by fibre content,
188 shape, length and aspect ratio, material properties of the fibre, placement methods which affect fibre
189 dispersion and orientation, and matrix type which can affect bond between the fibre and matrix. FRC
190 using brittle fibres that rely on a fibre pullout failure mechanism may experience limited post-cracking
191 resistance (loss of ductility) if the fibres fracture before pullout.
192 The use of micro synthetic fibres is often advantageous to increase fire resistance and to control cracking.
193 However, the effect of synthetic fibres on crack control is often limited to early age cracking during
194 concrete hardening. Cracking due to tensile stresses cannot be controlled effectively by synthetic fibres
195 due to their low modulus of elasticity. Macro synthetic fibers may provide significant toughness if a proper
196 dosage is adopted. The amount of published literature and design recommendations in technical codes or
197 design guidelines for the structural use of synthetic fibres is not sufficient to consider synthetic fibres in
198 structural strength calculations of members. However, synthetic fibres may be used for specific
199 applications based on experimental evidence.

200 A8.4.3. Classification of FRC

201 A8.4.3.1. General

202 FRC shall be classified in terms of both the specified compressive strength and the uniaxial tensile
203 behaviour. The compressive and tensile properties shall be determined from tests on the FRC mix.
204 FRC tensile behaviour shall be classified as either tension softening (TSFRC) or tension hardening
205 (THFRC) and characterized in accordance with Clauses A8.4.3.2 and A8.4.3.3 respectively.
206 The limits of compressive strength of Section 8 apply unless noted otherwise in this Annex.
207 Testing of the FRC mix is required to determine the compressive and tensile properties. Introducing fibres
208 into a concrete mix can reduce the compressive strength and associated properties, especially for
209 improperly designed FRC mixes with poor workability (Rossi 1998).
210 Section 8 limits the specified compressive strength in concrete materials for several design models and
211 equations. These limits apply unless specifically stated otherwise in this Annex.

212 A8.4.3.2. TSFRC

213 TSFRC shall be classified based on specified values of compressive strength 𝑓𝑐′ , and post-cracking
214 strength 𝑓𝐹𝑖 for a defined value of crack width 𝑤𝑖 . The cracking strength 𝑓𝑐𝑟𝑚 is determined in accordance
215 with Clause A8.4.5.2. 𝑓𝐹𝑚 is the post-cracking tensile strength at a maximum crack width wm
216 corresponding to ULS.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 6

FRC Canadian Code
217 TSFRC shall have the following minimum post-cracking tensile strength at a maximum crack width wm:
218
219 𝑓𝐹𝑚 ≥ 0.25𝑓𝑐𝑟𝑚 (A8.4.1)
220
221 Materials not meeting this requirement may be used where specifically indicated in this Annex, but the
222 contribution of the fibres shall not be considered in determining the structural performance.
223 The behaviour of TSFRC under tensile loading (Figure CA8.4.1) is characterized by:
224  a linear stress-strain law describing elastic behaviour of the concrete matrix up to the cracking
225 strength 𝑓𝑐𝑟𝑚 (linear-elastic zone),
226  a post-cracking stress-crack width law describing softening behaviour when deformation
227 becomes localized at a crack (softening zone).
228
 

fcrm

fFs
Ec fFi
1

229 cr  ws wi wm w

230 Figure CA8.4.1

231 Schematic Tensile Behaviour of TSFRC

232

233 A8.4.3.3. THFRC

234 THFRC shall be classified based on specified values of compressive strength 𝑓𝑐′ , ultimate tensile strength
235 fFu, and ultimate strain εtu. The cracking strength 𝑓𝑐𝑟𝑚 is determined in accordance with Clause A8.4.5.2.
236 THFRC shall satisfy the following criteria:
237
238 𝑓𝐹𝑢 ≥ 1.1𝑓𝑐𝑟𝑚 (A8.4.2)
239 𝜀𝑡𝑢 ≥ 0.001 (A8.4.3)
240
241 The cracking strength fcrm, hardening ratio fFu/ fcrm, and ultimate strain 𝜀𝑡𝑢 of THFRC with a specified
242 compressive strength equal to or greater than 120 MPa shall meet the requirements of UHPC category H
243 in accordance with CSA A23.1 Annex U.
244 A Material Identity Card in accordance with CSA A23.1 Annex U shall be provided for THFRC regardless
245 of its specified compressive strength.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 7

FRC Canadian Code
246 The behaviour of THFRC under tensile loading (Figure CA8.4.2) is characterized by:
247  a bi-linear stress-strain law describing (1) elastic behaviour up to cracking of the matrix at the
248 cracking strength 𝑓𝑐𝑟𝑚 (linear-elastic zone), and (2) hardening behaviour of the FRC up to the
249 ultimate tensile strength 𝑓𝐹𝑢 (strain-hardening zone),
250  a post-cracking stress-crack width law describing softening behaviour that occurs when
251 deformation becomes localized at a crack.
252
 

fFu

fcrm

Ec
1

253 cr tu  wm w

254 Figure CA8.4.2

255 Schematic Tensile Behaviour of THFRC
256
257 For fibre reinforced concrete to be considered as tension hardening (THFRC), the specified ultimate
258 tensile strength 𝑓𝐹𝑢 must exceed the concrete matrix tensile strength 𝑓𝑐𝑟𝑚 by 10% or more to assure that
259 the material is strain-hardening under uniaxial tension accounting for material variability. The lower limit
260 corresponds to the limit for UHPFRC Type UA in SIA 2052.
261 Linear elastic behaviour is assumed up to fcrm as shown in Figure CA8.4.2. The strain hardening zone
262 following matrix cracking is governed by the stiffness of the cracked material. The strain hardening zone
263 is described in the strain domain because this region is characterized by narrowly spaced cracks with
264 small crack width (nearly invisible to the human eye).
265 Deformation in the strain-hardening zone can be considered uniform in the direction of tensile
266 deformation being considered. Crack localisation occurs at the weakest section and corresponds to the
267 onset of tension softening behaviour.
268 For thin repairs and overlays, the hardening ratio fFu/ fcrm should have a value higher than the limit of 1.1
269 set by Equation A8.4.2, such as fFu/ fcrm = 1.3, to avoid crack localisation with excessively wide cracks
270 resulting from restrained deformations. In addition, specifying a high ultimate strain and a low shrinkage
271 strain may be appropriate.

272 A8.4.4. Compressive strength

273 The compressive strength of FRC shall be determined in accordance with CSA A23.1 and CSA A23.1
274 Annex U.
275 Fibres do not have a significant effect on the compressive strength of concrete. However, fibres can
276 reduce the brittleness of high strength concrete in compression.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 8

FRC Canadian Code
277 A8.4.5. Tensile behaviour

278 A8.4.5.1. General

279 The compressive strength limit of 85 MPa stated in Clause 8.4.1.2 shall not apply to Clause A8.4.5.

280 A8.4.5.2. Cracking strength

281 The average cracking strength of the FRC matrix 𝑓𝑐𝑟𝑚 of TSFRC is given by the following expression
282 using the specified compressive strength.
283
284 𝑓𝑐𝑟𝑚 = 0.6√𝑓𝑐′ ≤ 7.35 𝑀𝑃𝑎 (A8.4.4)
285
286 The cracking strength 𝑓𝑐𝑟𝑚 of THFRC shall be taken as the greater of the following two values:
287 (a) the average cracking strength in uniaxial tension obtained from the material qualification testing in
288 accordance with Clause A8.4.5.5.3 and
289 (b) the value determined with Equation A8.4.5 using the specified compressive strength without a
290 maximum limit.
291
292 𝑓𝑐𝑟𝑚 = 0.6√𝑓𝑐′ (A8.4.5)
293
294 The cracking strength refers to initial cracking of the cementitious matrix, indicated by the point where the
295 elastic stiffness of the FRC changes. With high fibre dosage, matrix cracking is more easily captured with
296 direct tensile tests but can be determined with appropriate bending tests. The splitting test is not an
297 acceptable method to determine the cracking strength of FRC.
298 Linear elastic behaviour is assumed up to fcrm as shown in Figure CA8.4.1 for TSFRC and Figure CA8.4.2
299 for THFRC.
300 The concrete cracking strength fcrm is used to establish the performance of FRC in tension after cracking.
301 The post-cracking efficiency of FRC is expressed relative to the matrix cracking strength fcrm. Using too
302 low a value for fcrm will overestimate post-cracking FRC efficiency for both TSFRC and THFRC. For this
303 reason, the proposed value corresponds to a strength slightly higher than the average concrete matrix
304 cracking strength. A computed value is preferred to a measured property because of the difficulty of
305 determining the cracking stress in tension from bending tests.
306 For TSFRC, using too low of an fcrm value will underestimate the crack spacing used to determine the
307 reference length ℓr (see commentary to Clause A8.8.3.1.2 for further explanation). Values given by
308 Equation A8.4.4 for TSFRC correspond to those indicated in the fib Model Code 2010 (CEB-FIP 2012).
309 See also Commentary of Clause A8.4.5.5.2. The limit of 7.35 MPa in Equation A8.4.4 corresponds to a
310 compressive strength of 150 MPa.
311 For THFRC, using too low of an fcrm value will overestimate the hardening efficiency (see commentary to
312 Clause A8.4.3.3). Values given by Equation A8.4.5 correspond to those indicated in fib Model Code 2010
313 (CEB-FIP 2012) for concrete compressive strength in the range of 100 to 120 MPa.
314 The Engineer can specify a cracking strength for THFRC other than the cracking strength given by
315 Equation A8.4.5. However, the cracking strength to be used in calculating the hardening ratio shall be

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 9

FRC Canadian Code
316 based on the larger of the values obtained from Equation A8.4.5 and the average uniaxial cracking
317 strength obtained from material qualification testing even if the supplier provides a product with a cracking
318 strength greater than specified.
319 For THFRC, the matrix cracking strength shall not be taken as less than the computed value using
320 Equation A8.4.5. This limit was established to avoid underestimating the cracking strength, which would
321 lead to an apparent increase in the hardening ratio fFu/ fcrm. This apparent increase in the hardening ratio
322 may lead to classifying materials as THFRC which are not tension hardening as classified in this Annex.
323 Note that the cracking strength may be underestimated in tests, e.g. when premature cracking induced
324 from shrinkage restraint occurs in the specimens while the specimen is curing in the molds or due to
325 eccentric loading. Specimens should be fabricated using molds and techniques that do not restrain
326 shrinkage during curing. This is especially important when creating direct tension (dog-bone) specimens
327 as axially rigid molds have been observed to restrain shrinkage.
328 Note that there is no limit on the compressive strength of the THFRC when using Equation A8.4.5.

329 A8.4.5.3. TSFRC post-cracking properties

330 The required specified properties for TSFRC for the post-cracking region, used for structural analysis in
331 this Annex, shall be determined with the simplified stress-crack width model presented in Figure A8.4.1.
332 The specified post-cracking tensile strength fFm at ULS shall correspond to the minimum strength value
333 obtained up to a maximum crack width wm. The value of wm shall not exceed the lesser of 3.5 mm or
334 ℓF / 4, where ℓF is the length of the longest fibre corresponding to a minimum of 50% of the total fibre
335 content. The post-cracking tensile strength fFs at SLS shall correspond to the minimum strength value
336 obtained up to a crack width of ws = 0.5 mm.
337

fcrm

fFs
fFm

338 ws wm
339
340 Figure A8.4.1
341 Simplified linear post-cracking stress model for TSFRC
342
343 The fibre length shall be shown on the Plans.
344 Although FRC is used at crack widths less than 0.5 mm at SLS, phenomena such as shrinkage and other
345 effects tend to increase crack width. Adopting the lowest tensile strength in the 0 to 0.5 mm crack width
346 range is conservative. Most TSFRC will be efficient up to a crack width of less than wm = 3 mm. The
347 maximum specified limit wm = 3.5 mm is typical for most fibres. A larger value for fibres with enhanced
348 elongation characteristics may be considered, which could be in the order of wm = 5 mm, but this would
349 require approval by the Owner.
350 The designer should realize that one can choose values for wm within the limits given in this clause based
351 on the design intent and fibre type. There may be instances where it is more favourable to choose values
352 for wm which are below the values indicated in this clause, but allow for higher strength fFm.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 10

FRC Canadian Code
353 A8.4.5.4. THFRC post-cracking properties

354 The specified post-cracking properties fFu, εtu and the properties fcrm and εcr for THFRC are required for
355 the strain hardening zone shown in Figure A8.4.2.

fFu
fcrm

356 cr tu

357
358 Figure A8.4.2
359 Simplified direct tensile model for THFRC
360
361 Deformation in the strain-hardening zone can be considered uniform in the direction of tensile
362 deformation being considered. Crack localisation occurs at the weakest section and corresponds to the
363 onset of tension softening behaviour.
364 The softening zone is neglected for the design of THFRC, since THFRC is often fairly brittle after crack
365 localisation. The softening zone may be considered on a case-by-case basis with analytical models
366 approved by the Owner.

367 A8.4.5.5. Determination of tensile properties

368 A8.4.5.5.1. General

369 The tensile properties of TSFRC and THFRC are measured using either (a) direct tension tests approved
370 by the Owner or (b) four-point bending tests with an inverse analysis. Test requirements for quality control
371 are described in Section A8.22 and CSA A23.1 Annex U, with the exception that the maximum prism
372 cross-section for bending tests shall be 150 mm x 150 mm for fibres up to 60 mm in length.
373 The tensile strength properties of FRC shall be determined on at least 30 consecutive strength tests of
374 specimens coming from a minimum of 3 separate batches of a single mix design. A minimum of 3 and a
375 maximum of 10 specimens per batch shall be used.
376 Unless stated otherwise, characteristic values shall meet or exceed specified design values.
377 Unless stated otherwise, a characteristic value shall be the 5% fractile (5th percentile) which is defined to
378 be equal to the average value minus 1.4 times the standard deviation of the 30 consecutive tests.
379 Flexure prism dimensions prescribed in Annex U of CSA A23.1 are based on AFGC (2013)
380 recommendations. For fibre lengths longer than 25 mm, the specified prism cross-section of 200 mm x
381 200 mm is not practical for most laboratories. Other standards (EN14651 2007) and the approach
382 proposed by Lopez et al. (2015, 2016) specify a prism cross-section size of 150 mm x 150 mm for fibre
383 lengths up to 60 mm.

384 A8.4.5.5.2. TSFRC

385 A8.4.5.5.2.1. General

386 The post-cracking tensile properties shall be determined at a minimum of two crack openings that are
387 representative of the range of expected utilisation of FRC:

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 11

FRC Canadian Code
388 (a) The post-cracking strength fFs shall be equal to the minimum measured tensile strength up to a crack
389 width ws which shall not be taken less than 0.5 mm.
390 (b) The post-cracking strength fFm shall be equal to the minimum measured tensile strength up to a crack
391 width wm.
392 Unless approved otherwise by the Owner, the inverse analysis method in Clause A8.4.5.5.2.2 shall be
393 used for determining the post-cracking tensile properties of TSFRC from the four-point bending test in
394 accordance with CSA A23.1 Annex U, with the exception that the maximum prism cross-section size shall
395 be 150 mm x 150 mm for fibres up to 60 mm in length.
396 Direct tension tests for TSFRC include the Australian Standard AS 5100 (2017) and the RILEM TC 162 -
397 TDF (2002) recommendations. Note that direct tensile tests need special testing equipment. Thus,
398 bending tests are typically used for the determination of the tensile behaviour of TSFRC.
399 Typical direct tensile test results for TSFRC are presented in Figure CA8.4.3 for the post-cracking
400 response, and show the characteristic strength values corresponding to a 5% fractile (or 5th percentile).
401
402
 

Individual test results

fcrm
Average
Characteristic
properties
Ec fFs
1 fFm

cr  ws wm w

403 a) Stress-strain phase b) Stress-crack width phase

404 Figure CA8.4.3
405 TSFRC typical direct tensile test results
406
407 The uncracked properties illustrated in Figure CA8.4.3 are a linear stress-strain response up to the
408 concrete matrix cracking at fcrm and a corresponding crack strain εcr. The elastic modulus Ec is given by
409 Clause 8.4.7.

410 A8.4.5.5.2.2. Inverse analysis for four-point bending test for TSFRC

411 The inverse analysis to determine the tensile properties of TSFRC shall be in accordance with the
412 equations given below for a test specimen with width b, depth h, distance L between supports, and
413 loaded at the third points with a total applied force P. Figure A8.4.3 shows a four-point bending test result
414 identifying the variables used in the inverse analysis.
415 Properties corresponding to fFs shall be obtained from the measured force at a deflection δs not less than
416 1.00 mm and not less than 1.1 δp. Properties corresponding to fFm shall be obtained from the measured
417 force at a deflection δm equal to 1.7 times wm but not less than 2.55 times δs.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 12

FRC Canadian Code
418

Pp
Ps

Pm

p s m 
419

420 Figure A8.4.3

421 Four-point bending test result for TSFRC with variables used in the inverse analysis

422
𝑃𝑐𝑟𝐿
423 𝑓𝑐𝑟𝑚 = (A8.4.6)
𝑏ℎ2

Ps L
424 f Fs  0.40 (A8.4.7)
bh 2
Pm L
425 f Fm  0.38 (A8.4.8)
bh2
Pp L
426 f Fp  0.42 (A8.4.9)
bh 2
427
428 The deflection δ corresponding to a crack width w is given by
429 𝛿 = 𝑤/𝐾𝛿 (A8.4.10)
430 Where
0.4 for w ≤ 0.5 mm
431 𝐾𝛿 = {0.4 + 0.2(w − 0.5) for 0.5 mm < 𝑤 < 1.5 𝑚𝑚 (A8.4.11)
0.6 for w ≥ 1.5 mm
432 The values of δs and δm corresponding to ws and wm shall be used to determine the values of Ps and Pm,
433 respectively, from the 4-point bending test.
434 The following limits shall apply when computing the post-cracking strength:
435 f Fs  0.9 f Fp (A8.4.12)
436
437 f Fm  0.9 f Fs (A8.4.13)
438
439 The most accurate way to determine the post-cracking tensile strength for a given crack width is with a
440 direct tension test. However, to perform a direct tension test and monitor outputs for TSFRC requires

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 13

FRC Canadian Code
441 specialized testing facilities and measuring equipment; such facilities are commonly available in university
442 research laboratories but less common in commercial laboratories. An alternative is undertaking of an
443 inverse analysis based on testing of standard prisms in bending. For this Annex the prism bending test of
444 CSA A23.1 Annex U is used to determine the post-cracking tensile strength.
445 Assuming a near linear distribution of tensile stress through the cracked depth for the model adopted, the
446 equivalent crack width 𝑤 for direct tension is approximated with the average crack width from the crack tip
447 (where 𝑤 = 0) to the crack mouth in the prism. Hence, 𝑤 equals CMOD/2, where CMOD is the crack
448 mouth opening displacement at the bottom of the prism as shown in Figure CA8.4.4.
449 The CMOD at any point in the test is converted from the measured deflection 𝛿 assuming rigid body
450 rotations as proposed by Vandewalle et al. (2003) and shown in Figure CA8.4.4. This gives 𝑤 =
451 𝐶𝑀𝑂𝐷/2 = (2/3)𝛿(1 − 𝑥/ℎ).
452

h h h

P/2 P/2


h

CMOD

L
453
454 Figure CA8.4.4
455 Conversion of deflections to CMOD
456
457 The depth to the crack tip 𝑥 is taken as 0.4ℎ for a crack width up to 0.5 mm (𝐶𝑀𝑂𝐷 = 1.0 mm) and less,
458 and 0.1ℎ for crack widths of 1.5 mm (𝐶𝑀𝑂𝐷 = 3.0 mm) and more. The depth to the crack tip is assumed
459 to vary linearly between these two values. The corresponding mid-point deflection for 𝑤 = 0.5 mm is given
460 by 𝛿 = 𝑤/0.4 = 1.25 mm and for 𝑤 = 3.5 mm is given by 𝛿 = 𝑤/0.6 = 5.83 mm.
461 Other references supporting this approach include Amin et al. (2015), Foster at al. (2018), di Prisco et al.
462 (2013), and Zhang and Stang (1998).
463 The corresponding equivalent direct tensile post-cracking stress, for the given crack width, is determined
464 by the simplified stress model shown in Figure CA8.4.5.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 14

FRC Canadian Code
 b

x
C

z
h
f(w)
T

(a) Section (b) Stresses (c) Simplified

at crack Model
465
466 Figure CA8.4.5
467 Stresses on prism cross-section at crack
468
469 The internal tension force on the section is equal to the externally applied moment (equal to PL/6) divided
470 by the internal lever arm 𝑧 = 𝑘2 ℎ and gives 𝑇 = 𝑃𝐿/(6𝑘2 ℎ), where P is the total applied force and L is the
471 span. The equivalent post-cracking residual tensile stress due to the fibres, 𝑓𝐹 , is the tension force divided
472 by the area between the crack tip and crack mouth and is:
473
𝑃𝐿 1 𝐾1 𝑃𝐿
474 𝑓𝐹 = ∙ =
6𝑘2 ℎ 𝑏ℎ(1 − 𝑥/ℎ) 𝑏ℎ2
475
476 The coefficient K1 = 1/(6k2(1-x/h)) is calibrated through testing.
477 The proposed procedure for inverse analysis is conservative and in accordance with existing tests.
478 Further information on the inverse analysis can be found in Amin et al. (2015) and Foster et al. (2018).

479 A8.4.5.5.3. THFRC

480 A8.4.5.5.3.1. General

481 Unless otherwise approved by the Owner, the inverse analysis method presented in Clause A8.4.5.5.3.2
482 shall be used for determining the tensile properties from the four-point bending tests in accordance with
483 CSA A23.1 Annex U, with the exception that the maximum prism cross-section size shall be 150 mm x
484 150 mm for fibres up to 60 mm in length. The tensile properties obtained from the inverse analysis shall
485 be validated with properties obtained by direct tensile tests approved by the Owner.
486 Characteristic values derived from the Material Identity Card for THFRC in accordance with CSA A23.1
487 Annex U shall meet or exceed specified design values, where:
488 (a) the tensile strength 𝑓𝑐𝑟𝑚 is equal to the average value, and
489 (b) the ultimate strain 𝜀𝑡𝑢 is equal to the average value.
490 All other values are based on the 5% fractile (5th percentile) as defined in A8.4.5.5.1.
491 Uniaxial tension tests may be used to obtain the tensile properties directly. Recommended direct tension
492 tests for THFRC include the methods described in Graybeal and Baby (2013) and SIA 2052.
493 While direct tensile tests are preferred, tensile properties may be obtained from four-point bending tests in
494 accordance with CSA A23.1 Annex U and using the proposed method of inverse analysis.
495 For THFRC, the Material Identity Card from CSA A23.1 Annex U provides properties obtained from either
496 direct tensile tests or bending tests: compressive strength, cracking strength, ultimate tensile strength,

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 15

FRC Canadian Code
497 and ultimate tensile strain. Values provided include the mean, standard deviation, and characteristic value
498 as illustrated in Figure CA8.4.6 for a direct tensile test.
499
 Individual test results 
Characteristic Individual test results
properties
fFu
Average
Characteristic
fcrm Average maximum properties
strength and strain

Average matrix
cracking strength

cr tu  w

500 a) Stress-strain phase b) Stress-crack width phase

501 Figure CA8.4.6

502 THFRC typical direct tensile test results
503
504 Figure CA8.4.6 includes the tensile properties in the softening zone for THFRC. However, the softening
505 zone properties are not used in the simplified tension models for THFRC adopted in the Annex.

506 A8.4.5.5.3.2. Inverse Analysis for Four-Point Bending Test for THFRC

507 The inverse analysis to determine the tensile properties of THFRC shall be in accordance with the
508 equations summarized in Table A8.4.1 for a test specimen with width b, depth h, distance L between
509 supports, and loaded at the third points with a total applied force P. Figures A8.4.4 and A8.4.5 identify the
510 variables used in the inverse analysis.
511
512 Table A8.4.1
513 Derivation of tensile properties using inverse analysis for THFRC

Property L = 3h Normalized parameters

7.2 𝑆𝑜 = initial slope of the load-deflection

𝑬𝒄𝟎 𝑆 curve (Figure A8.4.4)
𝑏 𝑜

𝑃1 𝐿 𝑃 0.19
𝒇𝒄𝒓𝒎 ( 1)
𝛫1 2 𝑃
𝑏ℎ 𝛫1 = 2
1.63

𝑓𝑐𝑟𝑚
𝜺𝒄𝒓
𝐸𝑐0

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 16

FRC Canadian Code
 𝛿3
𝜺𝒕𝒖 𝛫2 𝜀𝑐𝑟 𝛫2 = (7.65 − 10.53)
𝛿1

𝑃3
𝒇𝑭𝒖 𝛫3 𝑓𝑐𝑟𝑚 𝛫3 = 𝛫2 −0.18 (2.46 − 1.76)
𝑃1

𝛿4 ∗
𝜺𝒕𝟎 𝛫4 𝜀𝑐𝑟 𝛫4 = 𝛫3 −0.37 𝛫2 0.88 (3.00 − 1.80)
𝛿3

10𝑓𝐹𝑢 3ℎ
𝒘𝟎 (𝜀𝑡0 − 𝜀𝑡𝑢 + )
3𝐸𝑐0 2
514
515 The inverse analysis summarized in Table A8.4.1 is only applicable when P3 > P2. If P3 ≤ P2, the
516 tensile properties of the THFRC need to be determined directly by uniaxial tensile tests or by an
517 alternate inverse analysis method approved by the Owner.
518
519 Where:
520 𝑆𝑜 = initial slope of the load-deflection curve
521 𝐸𝑐0 = measured modulus of elasticity in tension
522 P1 = load defined by the intersection of the load-deflection curve with a straight line from the origin
523 with a slope S75 corresponding to 75% of the initial slope
524 P2 = load defined by the intersection of the load-deflection curve with a straight line from the origin
525 with a slope S40 corresponding to 40% of the initial slope
526 P3 = load corresponding to 97% of the maximum load Pmax from the load-deflection curve
527 P4 = load corresponding to 80% of P3.
528 To take account of the crack location relative to the midspan location, the displacement
529 corresponding to the load P4 is corrected as follows:
0.6
530 𝛿4 ∗ = 𝛿4 · 𝐾5 where 𝐾5 = 1 + 𝑑0 (A8.4.14)
𝐿

531 d0 = horizontal distance from midspan to the crack tip location (averaged from both the front and back
532 faces of the specimen)
533

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 17

FRC Canadian Code
534

535 Figure A8.4.4

536 Typical four-point bending test result for THFRC
537
538

fFu fFu
fcrm

fFu
3
cr tu w0 ℓFf /4
a) Stress-strain b) Stress-crack width
539 properties properties

540 Figure A8.4.5

541 Simplified Tensile Behaviour of THFRC
542 Note: The softening properties shown in Figure A8.4.5b are shown for completeness and are not used in
543 the design models of this Annex.
544
545 The inverse analysis includes the determination of the tensile properties in the softening zone for THFRC.
546 However, the softening zone properties are not used in the simplified tension models for THFRC used in
547 the Annex.
548 The inverse analysis is based on a method developed by Lopez et al. (2015, 2016) for UHPFRC. The
549 method has not been validated for UHPFRC commercially available in Canada and for the exact four-
550 point bending test setup used in this Annex and CSA A23.1 Annex U. Until more information becomes
551 available, it is recommended that values obtained from the inverse analysis be validated with results from
552 direct tension tests for each mix design. Examples of direct tensile properties of some FRC mixes
553 produced in Canada can be found in the literature (Lagier et al, 2016).

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 18

FRC Canadian Code
554 Using a test setup and specimen sizes other than that given in CSA A23.1 Annex U requires adaptation
555 and calibration of the inverse analysis presented in this Annex.

556 A8.4.6. Fibre efficiency

557 Isotropic or orthotropic design assumptions may be adopted for FRC. The post-cracking tensile properties
558 determined in Clause A8.4.5 shall be multiplied by the fibre efficiency factor γF to account for the actual
559 fibre orientation and dispersion in structural components relative to the direction of tensile stresses. The
560 fibre efficiency factor γF shall not be larger than 1.0 unless approved by the Owner.
561 The fibre efficiency factor shall be applied to strength (𝑓𝐹𝑠 , 𝑓𝐹𝑚 and 𝑓𝐹𝑢 ) and deformation (𝜀𝑡𝑢 ) properties in
562 SLS, FLS, and ULS design.
563 The values of γF shall be determined according to one of the following approaches:
564 (a) The tensile design properties may be obtained using samples extracted from cast members
565 identical to the designed elements. Samples shall be sawn or cored such that the fibres in the test
566 samples are acting in the same direction as in the in-situ member. The minimum sample
567 dimensions shall be the size specified in CSA A23.1 Annex U, Table U.2 for prisms. The sample
568 post-cracking tensile strength is the average value obtained from a minimum of 5 tests. The
569 effective fibre factor γF is equal to the ratio of the average sample post-cracking tensile strength to
570 the average post-cracking tensile strength values corresponding to Clause A8.4.5. Different
571 values of γF may be used in orthogonal directions. If a single value is used, the smallest value
572 shall be adopted.
573 (b) In lieu of the procedure described in (a), the following values for γF shall be used:
574 (i) for two-dimensional elements cast horizontally such as decks and slabs: γF = 0.8 for flexure
575 and beam shear; γF = 0.6 for punching shear
576 (ii) for two-dimensional elements cast vertically, such as walls: γF = 0.5 for flexure and beam
577 shear; γF = 0.5 for punching shear
578 (iii) for bond and development length of reinforcement: γF = 0.5
579 (iv) for large structural components and elements in which three-dimensional fibre dispersion is
580 expected, such as beams, girders, footings: γF = 0.40
581 (v) for local effects, such as anchors: γF = 0.3
582 The behaviour observed in the material characterization tests can deviate substantially from the
583 behaviour of the corresponding FRC in the structural element or structure. Thus, the effect of fibre
584 dispersion and orientation needs to be taken into account by the designer.
585 The tensile strength of FRC may be reduced in relation to the fibre orientation and dispersion, which
586 depends on the given application and size of member (volume of FRC).
587 Ideally, the fibre efficiency factor should be determined from tests, however, this is not always practical.
588 The values for the fibre efficiency factor are adapted from the French standard (which expresses fibre
589 efficiency with 1/K factors) (NF P18-710 2016). When values from the literature are used, the designer
590 should carefully consider the appropriateness of these values.
591 The experimental determination of the fibre efficiency factor requires comparison of either the average
592 test value with the average material characterization value, or comparison of the characteristic (5%
593 fractile) test value with the characteristic material characterization value, dependent on which test values
594 are available. If the comparison is based on characteristic values, the number of sample tests shall be
595 considered in determining the standard deviation and 5% fractile.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 19

FRC Canadian Code
596 Casting and consolidation methods, as specified in CSA A23.1 Annex U, should ensure a uniform
597 dispersion and isotropic fibre orientation. When uniform fibre dispersion or isotropic fibre properties are
598 not achieved, fibre efficiency factors may need to be reduced to account for unfavorable fibre orientation
599 relative to the expected direction of stresses. In cases with unfavourable fibre orientation, the fibre
600 efficiency factor could be as low as 0.30 (FIB 2018) or possibly even lower for FRC with low fibre content
601 where localized areas may have few contributing fibres (Casanova et al., 1997). In general, as the
602 expected failure plane area decreases, the efficiency factor also decreases. In some instances such as
603 for large members where the failure mechanism involves a large area (such as deck slabs under flexure),
604 the actual strength is close to the average material strength, leading to an efficiency factor larger than 1.0.
605 Fibre efficiency factors for components in which preferential 2D fibre orientation can be expected are
606 reported in the literature with Abrishambaf et al. (2013) reporting values ranging from 0.77 to 0.87.
607 Abrishambaf et al. (2013) reported fibre efficiency factors ranging from 0.57 to 0.76 for 2D components
608 where unfavorable fibre orientation was expected whereas AFGC (2013) recommends an efficiency factor
609 of 0.64 and Laranieira et al. (2011) also reported a value of 0.64.
610 Local effects are typically applicable to elements of small dimension such as bond or anchorage. For
611 example, Lagier et al. (2016) determined in lap-splice tests of UHPFRC with a high fibre volume of 4%
612 that an efficiency factor of 0.6 was correctly characterizing both the ultimate tensile strength and the
613 associated ultimate tensile strain.
614 For 3D elements AFGC (2013) recommends a fibre efficiency factor of 0.4 whereas Blanco et al. (2015)
615 indicated a fibre efficiency factor of 0.5.
616 While values of γF greater than 1.0 are proposed in some standards or guidelines (FIB 2018), indicating
617 that the tensile member behaviour is more favourable than the material characterization, this Annex does
618 not allow for values larger than 1.0, unless this is explicitly demonstrated and approved by the Owner.

619 A8.4.7. Modulus of Elasticity

620 The modulus of elasticity of FRC with compressive strength greater than 85 MPa shall be determined in
621 accordance with CSA A23.1 Annex U.
622 The effect of fibres on the modulus of elasticity may be assumed to be negligible for a well-designed
623 concrete mix for which the FRC is properly consolidated (Rossi 1998).

624 A8.4.8. Shrinkage

625 Design values for shrinkage strain of FRC with compressive strength greater than 85 MPa shall be based
626 on data obtained from physical tests on the same mix of concrete that is to be used in construction. Tests
627 shall be performed in accordance with CSA A23.1 Annex U. The shrinkage values shall be shown on the
628 Plans.
629 Depending on the application, restrained shrinkage may significantly influence the performance of the
630 member. This requires understanding of early age and long term shrinkage. CSA A23.1 Annex U requires
631 early age shrinkage to be measured in accordance with ASTM C1581 when it is required. If the
632 application creates restraint during early shrinkage and the tensile properties are being used (ie overlay),
633 then the early age shrinkage is required and CSA A23.1 Annex U Clause U.4.1.9.2.3 applies.
634 Similar to conventional concrete, the shrinkage values for FRC can vary widely dependent on the mix
635 design. For UHPFRC, shrinkage values will be provided on the Material ID card required in CSA A23.1
636 Annex U. Shrinkage values for other FRC are similar to the values of similar concrete without fibres.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 20

FRC Canadian Code
637 A8.4.9. Creep

638 Design values for creep strain of FRC with compressive strength greater than 85 MPa shall be based on
639 data obtained from physical tests on the same mix of concrete that is to be used in construction. Tests
640 shall be performed in accordance with CSA A23.1 Annex U. The creep values shall be shown on the
641 Plans.
642 Similar to conventional concrete, the creep values for FRC can vary widely dependent on the mix design.
643 For UHPFRC, creep values will be provided on the Material ID card required in CSA A23.1 Annex U.
644 Creep values for other FRC are similar to the values of similar concrete without fibres.

645 A8.4.10. Material resistance factors

646 The material resistance factor specified below shall be applied to the post-cracking tensile strength of
647 FRC to calculate the factored resistance
648
649 ϕF = 0.75 (A8.4.15)
650
651 The material resistance factor for concrete ϕc applies to the material properties for FRC except for the
652 post-cracking tensile strength.
653 The same material resistance factor was chosen as for concrete. This is based on the assumption that
654 the variability of FRC is not worse than the variability of plain concrete and because the characteristic
655 properties include the material dispersion whereas the efficiency factor accounts for the dispersion in the
656 structural elements. Test results for FRC bridge decks have indicated that a resistance factor larger than
657 0.75 could be used for bridge deck design (Massicotte et al. 2000). However, the material resistance
658 factor is taken as 0.75 or a number approved by the Owner until more information becomes available.

659 A8.5. Limit States

660 A8.5.1. General

661 The requirements of Clause 8.5 shall apply for FRC except as noted in the following clauses.
662 The effects of creep and shrinkage shall be considered for all limit states with methods approved by the
663 Owner.
664 The effects of creep and shrinkage may affect the tensile strains in FRC, in particular under partially or
665 fully restrained conditions, and these effects need to be taken into account in the design.

666 A8.5.2. Serviceability limit states

667 A8.5.2.1. Cracking

668 The requirements of Clause A8.12 shall be met.

669 A8.5.2.2. Deformation

670 The requirements of Clause A8.13 shall be met.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 21

FRC Canadian Code
671 A8.5.2.3. Stress

672 The stresses in a component shall not exceed the values specified in Clauses 8.7.1, A8.8, and 8.23.7, as
673 applicable.
674 Reinforcement and tendon stresses can be determined considering the fibre contribution for FRC in
675 accordance with Section A8.8.

676 A8.5.3. Fatigue limit state

677 The requirements of Clause 8.5.3.1 for reinforcing bars and Clause 8.5.3.2 for tendons shall apply. The
678 contribution of steel fibres may be considered in the determination of reinforcing bar and tendon stresses
679 for fatigue for THFRC and for TSFRC when approved by the Owner. The total strain in tension shall not
680 exceed 0.5𝜀𝑡𝑠 for TSFRC and 0.5𝛾𝐹 𝜀𝑡𝑢 for THFRC.
681 The effect of fibres positively affects the fatigue life of concrete (Parvez and Foster 2015). The benefits for
682 the fibres depend on several parameters and need to be determined on a case-by-case basis. Where
683 there is insufficient information on the fatigue performance for a FRC, the effect of fibres shall be
684 neglected.
685 A reduced post-cracking tensile strength of FRC may be considered for fatigue in reinforcement and
686 tendons. The contribution of the post-cracking tensile strength shall be determined by methods approved
687 by the Owner. Tests have shown that TSFRC and THFRC have positive effects in fatigue behaviour of
688 bridge decks subjected to traffic loading with a stress variation in conventional reinforcement limited to
689 Clause 8.5.3.1 (Massicotte et al. 2000 and Massicotte et al. 2016).
690 For fatigue, no failures have been identified for FRC using the lap lengths prescribed in Section A8.15.
691 However, fatigue tests of the lap-splice region with stress variation of 125 MPa in the reinforcement has
692 resulted in crack initiation in the UHPFRC for mixes containing 2% fibre by volume whereas no cracks
693 were observed for mixes containing 3% fibres by volume (Marleau et al. 2018). Fatigue failures of the
694 FRC have been observed in lap splices with reduced cover (Verger-Leboeuf et al. 2017).

695 A8.6. Design considerations

696 A8.6.1. General

697 The requirements of Clause 8.6 shall apply for FRC except as noted in the following clauses.
698 Fibres cannot fully replace continuous reinforcing or prestressing in members for bending and axial forces
699 except in secondary components when approved by the Owner. Fibres cannot fully replace shear
700 reinforcing or prestressing in members unless otherwise approved by the Owner. The minimum tensile
701 performance requirements for FRC given in Clause A8.4.5 shall be met when FRC is considered in the
702 structural design.
703 Fibres improve the load carrying capacity of concrete members subjected to axial forces, bending and
704 shear. Experiments and first applications have shown that in particular shear reinforcing can be
705 eliminated when using FRC. However, the elimination of continuous reinforcing (reinforcing bars,
706 prestressing) in bending or axial force members can significantly reduce the ductility and post-cracking
707 load carrying and deformation capacity of the structural member, and unforeseen load effects may lead to
708 sudden failure of members. Therefore, continuous reinforcing is required in all primary members under
709 flexural and axial loadings. This is the case when crack widths become large and the member loses
710 capacity through fibre pull-out or breakage. Therefore, the full elimination of reinforcement in bending or
711 axial force members should be avoided to prevent sudden loss of capacity.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 22

FRC Canadian Code
712 A8.6.2. Fibre dispersion

713 The effects of fibre dispersion and orientation shall be considered in the design using the fibre efficiency
714 factors from Clause A8.4.6. Where the structural design includes the contributions of fibres, the minimum
715 fibre efficiency factors shall be clearly indicated on the Plans.
716 The fibre dispersion and orientation often depend on the method of casting and consolidation, and this
717 can affect the structural performance of the member under all limit states. The Engineer needs to
718 consider the effects of casting and of potentially anisotropic fibre dispersion in the member design to
719 obtain the desired performance.
720 The Contractor needs to verify with the FRC supplier the construction method to be used to achieve the
721 specified minimum fibre efficiency factors shown on the Plans and thus, satisfy the design assumptions
722 related to fibre dispersion and orientation. It is common practice to carry out trial pours to assure that the
723 requirements on placement of the materials, including consolidation, fibre dispersion and other important
724 aspects are met.
725 The method and direction of casting has a significant influence on the fibre dispersion and structural
726 performance of FRC members. Internal vibration is not recommended, since it affects the fibre dispersion
727 and may lead to areas without proper fibre coverage, thus changing the structural performance of the
728 member. The FIB State-of-Art Report (2018) presents further information on various aspects of mixing
729 and placing FRC.
730 Some guidance is given in Clause U7.1.4 of CSA A23.1 Annex U. The clauses for UHPFRC in this
731 section apply for all types of FRC. Refer to Clause A8.4.6 of this Annex for discussion on the fibre
732 efficiency factor.

733 A8.6.3. Restraint

734 The Engineer shall consider the effects of restraint in the design.
735 In contrast to conventional concrete members, the FRC tensile properties are considered in the design of
736 FRC members. Therefore, any tensile deformations in the concrete need to be considered in the design.
737 This is particularly important in case of restraint, where a fairly significant portion of the tensile strain
738 capacity can be used up to resist tensile restraint deformations. The main source of tensile deformations
739 are thermal effects, shrinkage and creep, in particular at early age. Restraint may occur by casting
740 against existing members, from formwork, and/or other sources.

741 A8.6.4. Imposed deformations

742 The reduction of restraining forces to take account of creep shall be based on material specific tests for
743 FRC with specified compressive strength greater than 85 MPa, and the effects of creep shall be
744 evaluated with a method approved by the Owner.
745 This requirement is consistent with the requirements of Clause A8.4.9.
746 Shrinkage, creep and other imposed deformations can reduce the available tensile strain of an FRC and
747 consequently reduce strength or serviceability of the member. This reduction needs to be considered in
748 design. A method to consider this effect is to reduce the maximum design strain values for FRC in
749 tension, e.g. given in Clause A8.8.4 for flexural components.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 23

FRC Canadian Code
750 A8.6.5. Construction and cold joints

751 No fibre contribution shall be considered across construction joints in the design. All construction joints
752 shall be clearly indicated on the Plans. Cold joints shall not be permitted unless they are construction
753 joints.
754 Fibres generally do not bridge across cold joints or construction joints, thus their contribution shall be
755 neglected. This requires careful planning of cold joint and construction joint locations by the Engineer
756 during design. Refer to CSA A23.1 for definitions of cold and construction joints.
757 Refer to CSA A23.1 Annex U, Section 7 for more information on requirements for assuring fibre
758 orientation and bonding to hardened concrete.

759 A8.7. Prestressing

760 A8.7.1. General

761 The requirements of Clause 8.7 shall apply for FRC except as noted in the following clauses.

762 A8.7.2. Concrete strength at transfer

763 For FRC with specified compressive strength exceeding 85 MPa, the minimum compressive strength at
764 transfer shall not be less than 65% of the specified compressive strength at the time the force in the
765 tendons is transferred to the concrete unless otherwise approved by the Owner.
766 The limitation of the minimum compressive strength at transfer is expressed as a percentage of the
767 specified compressive strength when FRC has a specified compressive strength exceeding 85 MPa. A
768 relative limit was selected to address concerns of high deformations due to the low modulus of elasticity,
769 low tensile properties, and high creep values at the limits prescribed in Clause 8.7.2 when FRC has a
770 specified compressive strength exceeding 85 MPa.
771 The short transfer length of the strands can result in stress concentrations at the force introduction points,
772 see Clause A8.16 for more information on end zones.

773 A8.7.3. Loss of prestress

774 Prestress losses for FRC with a specified compressive strength up to 85 MPa shall be determined in
775 accordance with the provisions of Clause 8.7.4. Prestress losses for FRC with a specified compressive
776 strength greater than 85 MPa shall be determined in accordance with the provisions of Clause 8.7.4,
777 except that losses due to creep and shrinkage shall be determined according to Clauses A8.7.3.1 and
778 A8.7.3.2, respectively.

779 A8.7.3.1. Creep

780 The prestress loss due to creep shall be obtained in accordance with Clause A8.4.9.
781 The creep coefficient is used to determine the creep strain and the corresponding loss in prestress force.
782 For components subject to sustained compressive loads greater than 40% of the specified strength, the
783 creep testing shall be conducted at a sustained load equal to or greater than the sustained load in the
784 components.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 24

FRC Canadian Code
785 A8.7.3.2. Shrinkage

786 The prestress loss due to shrinkage shall be obtained in accordance with Clause A8.4.8.
787 Tests have shown that certain FRC mixes with a specified compressive strength greater or equal to 120
788 MPa may reach at least 95% of their ultimate shrinkage by two months after demoulding the specimen
789 (FHWA-HRT-18-036).
790 Test results have shown that the maximum shrinkage strain of UHPFRC can exceed 0.001, depending on
791 the concrete matrix. The shrinkage of UHPFRC consists of both drying shrinkage and autogenous
792 shrinkage. Autogenous shrinkage can be seen as internal drying shrinkage.
793 The prestress loss due to shrinkage is determined by considering the final stabilized shrinkage strain
794 (dependent on the FRC used) and the shrinkage strain at the time of loading. For certain UHPFRC, the
795 final stabilized shrinkage may be taken as the 90 day result.

796 A8.8. Flexural and Axial Loads

797 A8.8.1. General

798 The requirements of Clause 8.8 shall apply for FRC except as noted in the following clauses.

799 A8.8.2. Assumptions

800 In addition to the conditions of equilibrium and compatibility of strains, and the conditions indicated in
801 Clause 8.8.2 and 8.8.3, the following shall apply to calculations at all limit states.

802 A8.8.2.1. TSFRC

803 The tensile properties expressed in a stress-crack width format shall be converted to equivalent stress-
804 strain properties according to the structural member type as indicated in Clause A8.8.3.1. The stress-
805 crack width properties corresponding to Clause A8.4.5.3 shall be used. The tensile behaviour of FRC
806 shall account for fibre dispersion and orientation using the fibre efficiency γF factor specified in Clause
807 A8.4.6.
808 At SLS and FLS, TSFRC shall only resist tension up to a design equivalent strain εts associated with the
809 specified crack width not exceeding ws.
810 At ULS, TSFRC shall only resist tension up to a design equivalent strain εtm associated with the specified
811 crack width not exceeding wm.
812 For bending design with TSFRC, crack width is converted to strain (see Clause A8.8.3.1).
813 The design crack width can be selected by the Engineer up to a maximum crack width wm as specified in
814 Clause A8.4.5.3.

815 A8.8.2.2. THFRC

816 The stress-strain properties corresponding to Clause A8.4.5.4 shall be used. The tensile behaviour of
817 FRC shall account for fibre dispersion and orientation using the fibre efficiency γF factor specified in
818 Clause A8.4.6.
819 At SLS and FLS, THFRC is assumed to resist tension up to a design strain εts not exceeding 0.5γF εtu .

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 25

FRC Canadian Code
820 At ULS, THFRC is assumed to resist tension up to a design strain γF εtu . The softening portion beyond
821 crack localisation shall not be considered unless otherwise demonstrated by testing or an analysis
822 method approved by the Owner.

823 A8.8.3. Simplified design tension models for FRC

824 A8.8.3.1. TSFRC

825 A8.8.3.1.1. General

826 The design tension behaviour of TSFRC shall be characterized by one of the two simplified equivalent
827 stress-strain models shown in Figure A8.8.1. More refined models obtained from direct tension tests may
828 be used if approved by the Owner.
829
830

fcrm SLS and ULS

F fFs
F fFm

ts tm
a) Constant plastic stress-strain model for SLS and ULS

fcrm SLS fcrm ULS

F fFs F fFs
F fFm F fFm

ts tm ts tm

831 b) Two-level plastic stress-strain model for SLS and ULS
832 Figure A8.8.1
833 Design plastic stress-strain models for TSFRC
834
835 Where:
𝑤𝑠
836 𝜀𝑡𝑠 = (A8.8.1)
ℓ𝑟
𝑤𝑚
837 𝜀𝑡𝑚 = (A8.8.2)
ℓ𝑟
838
839 The reference length ℓr shall be determined based on the type of loading of the member. See Clauses
840 A8.8.3.1.2 and A8.8.6 for further information.
841 For bending design with TSFRC, crack width is converted to strain as shown by the plastic stress-strain
842 model in Figure A8.8.1. The corresponding stress-crack width material model is given in Figure A8.4.1.
843 Using a larger value of ℓ𝑟 is conservative since it leads to a smaller value of 𝜀𝑡𝑠 and 𝜀𝑡𝑚 for the
844 corresponding crack widths 𝑤𝑠 and 𝑤𝑚 respectively.
845 The designer can choose between either of the plastic stress-strain models shown in Figure A8.8.1. The
846 model in Figure A8.8.1a only requires the determination of a single design stress. The model is more
847 conservative at SLS, but easier to apply. The model shown in Figure A8.8.1b requires the determination
848 of different design stresses for SLS and ULS, but allows the designer to take more advantage of the FRC
849 properties at SLS, where the benefits of FRC are often the most beneficial.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 26

FRC Canadian Code
850 An example of a more refined tension stress-strain model for TSFRC is shown in Figure CA8.8.1.
851

fcrm
F fFs
F fFm

852 ts tm

853 Figure CA8.8.1
854 Linear stress-strain model for TSFRC
855

856 A8.8.3.1.2. Reference length

857 The reference length ℓr shall be determined as follows for members with reinforcing bars in the tension
858 zone:
859
860 ℓ𝑟 = min(𝑠𝑑 ; ℎ) (A8.8.3)
1 𝑓𝑐𝑟𝑚 −𝑓𝐹𝑠
861 𝑠𝑑 = 3𝑐𝑟 + 0.5𝑘𝑏 𝑘𝑐 𝑑𝑏 ( )( ) (A8.8.4)
𝜌𝑐𝑒 𝑓𝑐𝑟𝑚
862
863 Where:
864 cr = concrete clear cover to flexural reinforcement, mm
865 𝑘𝑏 = 1.0 for deformed bars, 1.2 for epoxy-coated bars, and 2.0 for plain bars or tendons
866 𝑘𝑐 = (𝜀1 + 𝜀2 )/2𝜀1 or 0.5 for pure bending and 1.0 for pure tension where
867 ε1 = Maximum tensile strain in a member as defined in Figure A8.8.2
868 ε2 = Minimum tensile strain in a member as defined in Figure A8.8.2
869
870 𝜌𝑐𝑒 = 𝐴𝑠 /𝐴𝑐𝑒 (A8.8.5)
871
872 Where:
873 𝐴𝑐𝑒 = effective area of concrete cross-section in tension as defined in Figure A8.8.2.
874 𝐴𝑠 = area of reinforcement contained within 𝐴𝑐𝑒
875 𝑓𝐹𝑠 = Specified post-cracking tensile strength at SLS, MPa
876 𝑓𝑐𝑟𝑚 = Cracking strength of the concrete matrix, MPa
877 The reference length ℓr for members with no reinforcing or prestressing in the tension zone of the member
878 shall be determined with a method approved by the Owner.
879 The effective concrete area Ace for computing the design crack spacing sd shall be calculated using Figure
880 A8.8.2 or with a method approved by the Owner.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 27

FRC Canadian Code
881
t
ccr

cr
d Ace
h Ace

 2.5 (h - d)
 (h - ccr)/3
 2.5 (cr + db /2)
Reinforcement c.o.g.  t/2
(a) Beam (b) Member in tension

2
ccr
2
Ace

 2.5 (cr + db/2)

 (h - ccr)/3 1 1
Beam Member in
cr tension
(d) Strain distributions
882 (c) Slab
883
884 Figure A8.8.2
885 Determination of Ace (adapted from CEB-FIP 2012)
886
887 After cracking, the normal cracking force is redistributed by bond to the reinforcement. In TSFRC, the
888 post-cracking tensile strength generated by the bridging effect of the fibres reduces the stress in the
889 reinforcement at the crack location. The transfer of stresses by bond into the uncracked FRC parts of the
890 member is reduced when the FRC carries tensile stress at the cracks as demonstrated with Equation
891 A8.8.4.
892 The reference length ℓr converts crack width into an average strain over a length sd. A larger value of 𝑓𝑐𝑟𝑚
893 leads to a larger value of ℓ𝑟 which conservatively reduces the strain values 𝜀𝑡𝑠 and 𝜀𝑡𝑚 .The proposed
894 values of ℓr are based on a combination of fib Model Code 2010 (CEB-FIP 2012) recommendations and
895 published literature. They are considered to be on the conservative side. For members with non-
896 prestressed reinforcing steel, crack width and spacing are governed by the fibres and the reinforcement
897 at SLS. After reinforcement yielding, while approaching ULS conditions, crack width is predominantly
898 governed by the member geometry. Selecting the minimum value of crack spacing and member depth is
899 adequate for both limit states (de Montaignac et al. 2012). For FRC members without conventional
900 reinforcement ℓ𝑟 may be taken as twice the member depth (de Montaignac et al. 2012).
901 Equation A8.8.4 is adopted from fib Model Code 2010 (CEB-FIP 2012). Parameters of Eurocode 2 (CEN
902 2004) for the type of reinforcing bar (kb) and strain gradient (kc) are introduced. A value for epoxy-coated
903 bars was added based on CSA-S6-14 (Clause 8.12.3.2).
904 The plastic tension model for TSFRC is based on the assumption that the unfactored post-cracking stress
905 in the FRC does not exceed the cracking strength fcrm and may be considered equal to γF fFs at SLS and
906 γF fFm at ULS.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 28

FRC Canadian Code
907 A8.8.3.2. THFRC

908 The design tension behaviour of THFRC may be characterized by the stress-strain model shown in Figure
909 A8.8.3.
910 The effects of restraint shall be considered when determining the maximum tensile strain εts at the
911 serviceability limit state and the maximum tensile strain εtu at the ultimate limit state.
912 The tensile strain at the serviceability limit state εts shall be limited to the maximum strain given in
913 Equation A8.8.6.
914
915 𝜀𝑡𝑠 ≤ 0.5𝛾𝐹 𝜀𝑡𝑢 (A8.8.6)
916

min(fcrm, F fFu)

917 ts F tu

918
919 Figure A8.8.3
920 Design stress-strain model for THFRC
921
922 Due to the brittle nature of THFRC after crack localisation, the design model is limited to the strain-
923 hardening part of the THFRC.
924 The plastic tension model for THFRC is based on the assumption that the unfactored tensile stress in the
925 FRC may be considered equal to the minimum of the cracking strength f crm and the ultimate tensile
926 strength multiplied by the fibre efficiency factor γF fFu to avoid using an unconservative strength value in
927 the plastic model.
928 The effects of restraint can be considered by reducing the strains εts and εtu.

929 A8.8.4. Flexural components

930 A8.8.4.1. General

931 In primary components as defined in Clause 1.3.3, the fibre contribution shall only be included when
932 supplemented by reinforcing bars or prestressing in the tension zone of the flexural member.
933 In secondary components as defined in Clause 1.3.3, the fibre contribution shall only be included without
934 supplemental reinforcing bars or prestressing in the tension zone when approved by the Owner. No
935 redistribution of stresses in the analysis is permitted for sections without supplemental reinforcing bars or
936 prestressing in the tension zone.
937 The flexural design shall be carried out either using the simplified tension models given in Clause
938 A8.8.3.1 for TSFRC and Clause A8.8.3.2 for THFRC or with models approved by the Owner.
939 The stress-strain models adopted for bending are typical of members reinforced with steel fibres and
940 conventional steel reinforcement for which cracks remain small in service conditions. The associated

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 29

FRC Canadian Code
941 equations are applicable for steel fibre reinforced concrete only. Similar models would probably be
942 obtained with other types of fibres or reinforcing bars.
943 Simplified plastic models are adopted for FRC in this Annex. The simplified plastic models may be
944 replaced by more complex tensile behaviour models obtained from testing, when approved by the Owner.
945 These more complex models will require compatibility and stress integration over the member depth to
946 determine the flexural capacity of the member.
947 For the SLS and FLS, the compression zone can be considered linear elastic. For the ULS, the
948 compressive zone can be considered elastic or plastic. The position of the neutral axis obtained for the
949 ULS may be used for simplicity.
950 For FRC members in bending, the values of α1 and β1 specified in Section 8 are considered adequate for
951 concrete with compressive strength higher than 85 MPa. The minimum value for β1 of 0.67 (i.e. f’c ≥ 120
952 MPa) is compatible with the triangular shape of the stress-strain diagram for FRC with high compressive
953 strength. The specified minimum value of α1 might not be appropriate for compressive strength exceeding
954 120 MPa. However, this has a minor effect on the flexural strength of under-reinforced members in
955 bending. In the case of member sustaining high axial forces, a strain compatibility analysis is
956 recommended.
957 Figures CA8.8.2 and CA8.8.3 illustrate the strain and stress conditions considered in bending for the
958 simplified models at the SLS and ULS respectively.
959
c fcEc cf c

d
h TSFRC: t ts
ft =FfFs  Two-step model
ft =FfFm  One-step model
As s fs THFRC: εtt ≤ εtsFts
ft = minFfFu ; fcrm)
960 t ft
961 Figure CA8.8.2
962 Stress and strain conditions for FRC members in bending at SLS and FLS

963

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 30

FRC Canadian Code
 c fccEc ccf c

d
h’
TSFRC: t tm
ft =FFfFm
As s sfs  sfy THFRC: t  Ftu
ft = minFFfFu ; cfcrm)
t ft
a) Elastic stresses in compression (Ec cf c) and plastic stresses in tension
with t tm for TSFRC or Ftu for THFRC

c fccEc ccf c

d
h ht
tm TSFRC: t >tm
orFtu ft ft =FFfFm
As s sfs  sfy THFRC: t >Ftu
ft = minFFfFu ; cfcrm)
t
b) Elastic stresses in compression (Ec cf c) and plastic stress in tension
with t tm for TSFRC or Ftu for THFRC
fcc1 f c
c

c 1 c

d
h
TSFRC: t tm
ft =FFfFm
As s sfs  sfy THFRC: t  Ftu
ft = minFFfFu ; cfcrm)
t fc
c) Plastic stresses in compression (Ec c >f c) and plastic stress in tension
with t tm for TSFRC or Ftu for THFRC

c fcc 1 f'c

c 1 c

d
h ht
tm TSFRC: t >tm
orFtu ft ft =FFfFm
As s sfs  sfy THFRC: t >Ftu
ft = minFFfFu ; cfcrm)
t
d) Plastic stresses in compression (Ec c >f c) and plastic stress in tension
964 with t tm for TSFRC or Ftu for THFRC

965 Figure CA8.8.3

966 Stress and strain conditions for FRC members in bending at ULS

967

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 31

FRC Canadian Code
968 A8.8.4.2. Cracking moment

969 A component shall be assumed to crack when the moment at the section is such that a tensile stress of
970 fcr, as specified in Clause 8.4.1.8, is induced in the concrete.

971 A8.8.4.3. Flexural resistance at ULS with reinforcement in the tensile zone

972 A8.8.4.3.1. Determination of the flexural resistance

973 The factored flexural resistance shall be calculated in accordance with Clauses A8.8.2 and A8.8.3 using
974 the following method or with an alternate method approved by the Owner.
975 The curvature ductility ratio μ shall be the ratio of the curvature at the maximum calculated flexural
976 resistance to the curvature at the flexural resistance corresponding to yielding of the reinforcing in the
977 tension zone. The minimum curvature ductility ratio μmin shall be equal to 2.0 for members designed for
978 the applied moments under an elastic analysis without any force redistribution. When using inelastic
979 methods or moment redistribution for structural analysis, the Engineer shall determine the appropriate
980 minimum ductility ratio with a method approved by the Owner.
981 For members with a curvature ductility ratio μ equal to or greater than the minimum curvature ductility
982 ratio μmin, the factored flexural resistance shall be equal to the moment at yielding of the reinforcement
983 and include the contribution of the fibers, but not less than (b) below.
984 For members with a curvature ductility ratio μ of less than the minimum curvature ductility ratio μmin, the
985 factored flexural resistance shall be the greater of
986 (a) 0.67 times the maximum calculated flexural resistance including the contribution from fibers, and
987 (b) the flexural resistance of the section based on only the reinforcing bars and/or prestressing,
988 without considering the contribution of fibres and meeting the requirements of Clause 8.8.4.
989 The idealised moment-curvature response shown in Figure CA8.8.4 for a non-prestressed flexural
990 member identifies the key points defining flexural behaviour. The serviceability and fatigue limit states are
991 based on the unfactored response. The ultimate limit state is determined based on the factored response.
992
Factored response
Mry Mru
Mrm
Ms
Mcr Unfactored response

993
s y m u
994 Figure CA8.8.4
995 Flexural member response

996 The moment resistance is based on ductility considerations of the member. The maximum flexural
997 resistance is based on the computations of three key flexural resistance values: (1) at yielding of the
998 reinforcing bars in tension, (2) when the extreme tension fibre of the member equals εtm for TSFRC or
999 γFεtu for THFRC, or (3) when the extreme compression fibre of the member equals the ultimate
1000 compression strain εcu = 0.0035. Where the reinforcement yields and the curvature ductility ratio is larger

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 32

FRC Canadian Code
1001 than the minimum curvature ductility ratio, failure is assumed to be ductile, and moment resistance is
1002 determined similar to plain reinforced concrete sections except that the tensile contribution of the fibres is
1003 included. Where the curvature ductility ratio is less than the minimum value, there may be insufficient
1004 ductility in the section, and the moment resistance is reduced to 0.67 times the calculated moment
1005 resistance to account for a potentially brittle failure mode. However, the moment resistance does not
1006 need to be taken lower than the resistance for an equivalent section without fibres. The reduction in
1007 moment resistance to account for limited ductility is similar to what is done in members reinforced with
1008 FRP bars or grids where failure is governed by FRP rupture (i.e. brittle failure) (Clause 16.8.2.2).
1009 A minimum curvature ductility ratio of 2.0 is intended to provide a minimum level of ductility to account for
1010 limitations in the models compared to the actual structural behaviour and to account for simplifications
1011 made in the design models.
1012 Dependent on the structural system and the method of analysis chosen, the ductility ratio may need to be
1013 larger than 2.0. Special consideration shall be given for systems where moment redistribution is
1014 considered in the design. Where moment redistribution is considered in the design, the designer must
1015 carefully examine potential over strength and impacts on ductility in the FRC member to avoid
1016 unconservative assumptions.
1017
1018 The following approach is suggested to determine the flexural capacity:
1019 1. Determine the factored flexural resistances for:
1020 a. Mry at a curvature ψy corresponding to yielding of reinforcing bars or prestressing (εs = εy)
1021 in the tension zone.
1022 b. Mru at a curvature ψu corresponding to the extreme compression fibre of the member
1023 equal to the ultimate compression strain εcu = 0.0035.
1024 c. When the strain εt in the extreme tension fibre of the member for Part (b) is less than or
1025 equal to εtm for TSFRC or γFεtu for THFRC, then Mrm = Mru and ψm = ψu.
1026 d. When the strain εt in the extreme tension fibre of the member for Part (b) exceeds εtm for
1027 TSFRC or γFεtu for THFRC, then determine Mrm at a curvature ψm corresponding to the
1028 extreme tension fibre of the member equal to εtm for TSFRC or γFεtu for THFRC. For this
1029 case the extreme compression fibre of the member does not reach the ultimate
1030 compressive strain εcu = 0.0035.
1031 2. Determine the ductility curvature ratio
1032 a. Determine the curvature ψ1 at the maximum factored flexural resistance, which
1033 corresponds to M1 = max(Mry; Mrm; Mru)
1034 b. Determine the ductility curvature ratio μ = ψ1 / ψy
1035 3. Determine the resistance moment Mr
1036 a. For μ ≥ μmin, Mr = Mry
0.67 max(𝑀𝑟𝑦 ; 𝑀𝑟𝑚 ; 𝑀𝑟𝑢 )
1037 b. For μ < μmin, 𝑀𝑟 = max {
𝑀𝑟0
1038 with Mr0 being the factored flexural resistance of the section based on only the
1039 reinforcing bars and/or prestressing, without considering the contribution of fibres.

1040 A8.8.4.3.2. Maximum fibre contribution

1041 The factored flexural resistance of a section based on only the reinforcing bars and/or prestressing,
1042 without considering the contribution of fibres, Mr0, shall not be less than 80% of the factored moment, Mf.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 33

FRC Canadian Code
1043 This clause limits the contribution of the fibres at the ULS when compared to the factored moments. The
1044 clause is intended to provide a minimum amount of continuous reinforcing in the form of reinforcing bars
1045 and/or prestressing to avoid brittle failure by fibre pull-out and provide residual ductility of the FRC
1046 members.

1047 A8.8.4.4. Flexural resistance at the Ultimate Limit State with FRC only in the
1048 tensile zone

1049 The use of FRC without reinforcing in the tension zone shall only be used in secondary components as
1050 defined in Clause 1.3.3 when approved by the Owner.
1051 The factored flexural resistance of FRC members without reinforcing in the tension zone at the ultimate
1052 limit state Mr shall be equal to 0.50 times the maximum calculated flexural resistance of the FRC member
1053 unless otherwise approved by the Owner.
1054 The following approach is suggested to determine the flexural capacity of FRC members without
1055 reinforcing in the tension zone in the tensile zone:
1056 1. Determine the factored moment resistance at the following conditions:
1057 a. Mrm when εtm for TSFRC or γFεtu for THFRC is reached at the extreme tension fibre of the
1058 member;
1059 b. Mru when the ultimate compressive concrete strain εcu = 0.0035 is reached at the
1060 extreme compression fibre of the member.
1061 2. Determine the factored moment resistance Mr = 0.5 max(Mrm; Mru)
1062 The response of members with FRC only in the tension zone can be fairly brittle. Thus, the factored
1063 flexural resistance is reduced to 0.5 of the maximum value of the calculated flexural resistances Mrm and
1064 Mru to account for a potentially unsafe failure mode.

1065 A8.8.5. Compression components

1066 A8.8.5.1. General

1067 The proportioning of cross-sections subject to combined flexure and axial compression shall be in
1068 accordance with Clause 8.8.5 except as modified in Clause A8.8.4.
1069 The maximum and minimum reinforcement requirements of Clause 8.8.5 apply.

1070 A8.8.6. Tension components

1071 For components in which the applied loading induces tensile stresses throughout the cross-section, the
1072 load shall be assumed to be resisted by the reinforcement and the FRC.
1073 For TSFRC, the reference length ℓr for tensile members shall be determined in accordance with Clause
1074 A8.8.3.1.2. For THFRC the maximum tensile strain shall not exceed 0.5𝛾𝐹 𝜀𝑡𝑢 at SLS. The contribution of
1075 fibres to the tensile resistance shall not be considered at ULS.
1076 The amount of reinforcement shall be such that the factored axial tensile resistance is at least 1.20 times
1077 the load inducing a tensile stress of fcr in the concrete. Components subjected to eccentric tension loading
1078 that induces both tensile and compressive stresses in the cross-section shall comply with Clauses 8.8.2
1079 to 8.8.4 supplemented by Clauses A8.8.2 to A8.8.4, and Clause 8.12 supplemented by Clause A8.12.
1080 The effects of restraint, tensile creep and other imposed deformations shall be considered in the design.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 34

FRC Canadian Code
1081 A8.8.7. Bursting and spalling

1082 When the factored applied load exceeds that based on the bearing area permitted by Clause 8.8.7.2,
1083 adequate provision shall be made to resist the bursting and spalling forces in accordance with Clause
1084 A8.16.

1085 A8.9. Shear and Torsion

1086 A8.9.1. General

1087 The requirements of Clause 8.9 shall apply for FRC except as noted in the following clauses.
1088 For TSFRC, Clauses A8.9.2 and A8.9.3 shall apply.
1089 For THFRC, the provisions of Clause 8.9 shall apply unless otherwise approved by the Owner.
1090 Torsion shall be computed in accordance with Clause 8.9.
1091 The shear model for TSFRC is based on Foster et al. (2018).
1092 The development of a shear model for THFRC is still ongoing, and no accepted shear model is available
1093 at this time to the task force’s knowledge. There is consensus in the literature that fibres improve the
1094 shear resistance of structural members, and full-scale testing has shown that fibres can partially/fully
1095 replace shear reinforcement, in particular for THFRC. Due to the lack of an acceptable shear model for
1096 THFRC, the use of Clause 8.9, i.e. neglecting the fibre contribution for shear design, is deemed to be a
1097 conservative approach. Foster and Agarwal (2018) confirmed that the modified compression field theory
1098 (MCFT) models can be applied for THFRC having no coarse aggregate by setting the aggregate size to
1099 zero and that the MCFT models for UHPFRC are conservative. While THFRC typically does not contain
1100 coarse aggregate, there is a high volume of steel fibres that cause shear cracks to be tortuous as evident
1101 in tests by Voo et al. (2006 and 2010) and therefore, setting the aggregate size to zero in the shear model
1102 given in Clause 8.9 is conservative.
1103 Partial or full elimination of shear reinforcing when using THFRC requires demonstration of the efficiency
1104 of the fibres with full scale testing or other methods acceptable to the Engineer and Owner.

1105 A8.9.2. Design shear strength of flexural members for TSFRC

1106 The factored shear resistance shall be determined by:

1107
1108 Vr = Vc + Vfib + Vs+ Vp (A8.9.1)
1109
1110 where Vc and Vs are determined from Clauses 8.9.3.4 and 8.9.3.5.
1111 The contribution of the fibres in Equation A8.9.1, Vfib, shall be determined from Clause A8.9.3.1 or
1112 A8.9.3.2, as applicable, but shall not be taken as greater than Vc.
1113 However, Vr shall not exceed

Vr ,max  0.25c fcbw dv  V p

1114 (A8.9.2)

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 35

FRC Canadian Code
1115 Vs and Vc are calculated with the same equation as for conventional concrete. Clause 8.9.3.4 limits the
1116 cracking strength fcr to 3.2 MPa, which corresponds to a limitation of the compressive strength to 64 MPa
1117 in the shear strength calculations. The same limitation applies to FRC.

1118 A8.9.3. Contribution to shear strength by steel fibres for TSFRC

1119 A8.9.3.1. Design by refined calculation

1120 The contribution of the fibres to the ultimate shear strength Vfib of an FRC member shall be calculated
1121 from the following equation
1122 𝑉𝑓𝑖𝑏 = 0.8𝛾𝐹 𝜙𝐹 𝑓𝑤 cot 𝜃 𝑏𝑤 𝑑𝑣 (A8.9.3)
1123
1124 where:
1125 γF = fibre efficiency factor calculated in accordance with Clause A8.4.6
1126 fw = the specified post-cracking tensile strength of FRC corresponding to a crack opening
1127 displacement wv, where wv is the crack opening displacement in the transverse direction
1128 θ = angle between the axis of the concrete compression strut and the longitudinal axis of the member
1129 determined from Clauses 8.9.3.6 or 8.9.3.7, as appropriate
1130 dv = effective shear depth determined from Clause 8.9.1.5
1131
1132 The specified post-cracking tensile strength fw is determined from the post-cracking stress model
1133 described in Figure A8.4.1 in Clause A8.4.5.3, corresponding to the computed crack width wv determined
1134 as

 1000  s ze  1
wv   0.2  1000 x     0.125 mm
1135  1300  cos (A8.9.4)
1136
1137 where sze and εx are determined from Clauses 8.9.3.7 and 8.9.3.8.
1138 For sections containing at least the minimum transverse reinforcement required by Clause 8.9.1.3, sze
1139 shall be taken as 300 mm; otherwise, sze shall be calculated in accordance with Clause 8.9.3.6.

1140 A8.9.3.2. Design by simplified calculation

1141 For non-prestressed components not subjected to axial tension, and provided that:
1142 (a) the specified yield strength of the longitudinal reinforcement does not exceed 400 MPa;
1143 (b) the design concrete strength does not exceed 60 MPa; and
1144 (c) the depth of the beam does not exceed 750 mm.
1145 The angle of inclination of the compression strut θ shall be taken as 35° and the contribution of the fibres
1146 Vfib to the ultimate shear strength shall be determined from Equation A8.9.3 with fw taken at a crack width
1147 of 1.5 mm.
1148 This section is to be used with the simplified calculation for β and θ in accordance with Clause 8.9.3.6 to
1149 determine Vc and Vs.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 36

FRC Canadian Code
1150 The assumptions for the simplified calculations are the same as for concrete without fibres except for the
1151 addition of a limitation on member depth as the design crack width is dependent on the member depth.
1152 The background for the limitations on reinforcement yield strength and concrete strength and derivation of
1153 θ is described in Bentz and Collins (2004). The crack width, wv, of 1.5 mm is derived from substituting
1154 εx=0.85fy/(2Es), sze = 0.7h = 525 mm, and θ = 35° into Equation A8.9.4. Deeper members are designed
1155 according to the refined calculation given in Clause A8.9.3.1.

1156 A8.9.4. Design shear strength of sections without steel reinforcing

1157 The use of FRC without reinforcing in the tension zone shall only be used in secondary components as
1158 defined in Clause 1.3.3 when approved by the Owner.
1159 The factored shear resistance of FRC sections without reinforcing shall not exceed
1160 𝑉𝑟 = 0.10𝜙𝑐 √𝑓′𝑐 𝑏𝑣 𝑑𝑣
1161
1162 𝑉𝑟 = 0.25𝜙𝑐 𝑓𝑐𝑟 𝑏𝑣 𝑑𝑣
1163 The shear resistance for FRC sections without reinforcing corresponds to the limits for plain concrete in
1164 Section 22 – Plain Concrete of CSA A23.3 and is conservative.

1165 A8.10. Strut-and-tie-modeling

1166 A8.10.1. General

1167 The provisions of Clause 8.10 shall apply unless otherwise approved by the Owner.
1168 Strut-and-tie modeling provisions are based on the assumption of adequate ductility and capacity of
1169 stress redistribution to obtain the force flow assumed in the model. In accordance with the limitations of
1170 this Annex, fibres cannot be used to replace continuous reinforcing or prestressing at tie locations.
1171 However, other standards, including the German guideline on SFRC (DAfStb 2015) allow for a
1172 contribution of steel fibres to the strength of ties under certain conditions.
1173 There is currently insufficient information available on the capability of fibres as crack control
1174 reinforcement to provide adequate ductility for the required force redistribution. Therefore, no provisions
1175 regarding the use of FRC as crack control reinforcing for strut-and-tie modeling have been included in this
1176 edition of the Annex. FRC may be used for crack control when the Engineer can provide sufficient
1177 evidence to the Owner to demonstrate the appropriateness of the FRC for crack control.

1178 A8.11. Durability

1179 A8.11.1. General

1180 The requirements of Clause 8.11 shall apply for FRC except as noted in the following clauses.
1181 Durability shall be evaluated for the structural system, not based on the FRC material properties only.
1182 The durability of structural members can be significantly enhanced through the use of FRC and in
1183 particular UHPFRC in accordance with CSA A23.1 Annex U. Durability depends on both the material
1184 properties and the structural member behaviour. Evaluating the member durability based on material

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 37

FRC Canadian Code
1185 properties only may overestimate the durability of a structural member. The durability of UHPFRC was
1186 studied by Thomas et al. (2012).
1187 The Engineer shall consider the exposure of the element (e.g. to chlorides, abrasion, or other
1188 deterioration mechanisms) as well as the required service life of the structure, the structural member
1189 behaviour, and other aspects relevant to the durability of the element when determining the required FRC
1190 material properties.

1191 A8.11.2. Durability limits for UHPFRC

1192 Durability categories of FRC with a compressive strength equal to or greater than 120 MPa (UHPFRC)
1193 shall be in accordance to CSA A23.1 Annex U.
1194 CSA A23.1 gives durability categories for UHPC. Most testing in North America has been carried out on
1195 UHPFRC with a DL100 or better. The DL50 requirements in CSA A23.1 Annex U are in the same range
1196 as for high performance concretes and may not provide the same level of protection as materials with a
1197 durability category of DL100 or better.

1198 A8.11.3. Production and delivery

1199 The production and delivery of FRC shall be in accordance with the requirements of CSA A23.1 Annex U,
1200 unless specified otherwise in this Annex or otherwise approved by the Owner.
1201 The provisions of CSA A23.1 Annex U apply to all FRC, including FRC with a specified compressive
1202 strength of less than 120 MPa, unless specified otherwise in this Annex or otherwise approved by the
1203 Owner.

1204 A8.11.4. Placing, finishing and curing

1205 The placing, finishing and curing of FRC shall be in accordance with the requirements of CSA A23.1
1206 Annex U, unless specified otherwise in this Annex or otherwise approved by the Owner.
1207 The provisions of CSA A23.1 Annex U apply to all FRC, including FRC with a specified compressive
1208 strength of less than 120 MPa, unless specified otherwise in this Annex or otherwise approved by the
1209 Owner.

1210 A8.11.5. Concrete cover and tolerances

1211 Unless otherwise approved by the Owner, the following requirements apply for components in which the
1212 contribution of fibres is considered for determining the strength at any limit state. For any components in
1213 which the contribution of fibres is not considered for determining the strength, the requirements of Section
1214 8 shall apply.
1215 For field-cast components, the minimum clear cover between the face of formwork or unformed surfaces
1216 and any reinforcing bars, tendons, or mesh, shall be the greater of:
1217 a) the maximum fibre length for horizontal formwork or unformed surfaces,
1218 1.5 times the maximum fibre length for vertical formwork,
1219 b) 25 mm for THFRC meeting Annex U requirements,
1220 40 mm for THFRC not meeting Annex U requirements,
1221 40 mm for TSFRC with 𝑓𝐹𝑠 ≥ 0.5𝑓𝑐𝑟𝑚 , and

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 38

FRC Canadian Code
1222 the minimum cover requirements of Section 8 for TSFRC with 𝑓𝐹𝑠 < 0.5𝑓𝑐𝑟𝑚 , or
1223 c) 1.5 times the maximum coarse aggregate size.
1224 For precast components, the minimum clear cover between the face of formwork or unformed surfaces
1225 and any reinforcing bars, tendons, or mesh, shall be the greater of:
1226 a) the maximum fibre length for horizontal formwork or unformed surfaces,
1227 1.5 times the maximum fibre length for vertical formwork
1228 b) 20 mm for THFRC meeting Annex U requirements,
1229 40 mm for THFRC not meeting Annex U requirements,
1230 40 mm for TSFRC with 𝑓𝐹𝑠 ≥ 0.5𝑓𝑐𝑟𝑚 , and
1231 the minimum cover requirements of Section 8 for TSFRC with 𝑓𝐹𝑠 < 0.5𝑓𝑐𝑟𝑚 , or
1232 c) 1.5 times the maximum coarse aggregate size.
1233 The minimum clear cover requirement for FRC is based on general mechanical behaviour, durability
1234 requirements and casting procedures for ensuring proper flow of the FRC. For UHPFRC the minimum
1235 limits are compatible with the requirements of A23.1 Clause U.6 and the Swiss Standard SIA 2052
1236 (2016). For FRC with fibres 25 mm and longer, past experience with field-cast components shows that
1237 good quality can be achieved with properly designed mixes in terms of workability at high fibre content
1238 (Massicotte et al. 2016). A larger cover may be required to shorten development, splice, or embedment
1239 lengths. For field cast connections, these values are specified in Clause A8.20 of this Annex.

1240 A8.11.6. Waterproofing

1241 For UHPFRC with a durability category DL100 or better in accordance with CSA A23.1 Annex U,
1242 waterproofing membranes may be eliminated when approved by the Owner.
1243 The minimum clear cover requirement for UHPFRC is based on durability requirements and applies in
1244 addition to the other cover requirements of this Annex.

1245 A8.12. Control of Cracking

1246 A8.12.1. General

1247 The requirements of Clause 8.12 shall apply for FRC except as noted in the following clauses.
1248 THFRC shall remain linear-elastic or in the strain-hardening domain at the serviceability limit state, i.e. the
1249 strain of εts shall not be exceeded in THFRC at the serviceability limit state. The calculation of crack width
1250 is not required for THFRC, since it shall only be considered in the strain-hardening domain where there
1251 are no localized cracks.
1252 This document limits the use of THFRC to the linear-elastic and strain-hardening domains under SLS and
1253 FLS. Control of cracking is achieved by assuring that the material does not exceed εts under service
1254 conditions, i.e. it remains in the strain-hardening zone and cracks do not localize under SLS. See Clause
1255 A8.8.3.2 for the definition of εts. The effects of creep, shrinkage, temperature and all other deformations
1256 as well as all loads shall be considered when assessing the control of cracking for THFRC.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 39

FRC Canadian Code
1257 A8.12.2. Distribution of reinforcement

1258 The distribution and position of bonded reinforcing bars and, where applicable, tendons, in the tensile
1259 zone shall account for the ability of FRC to control cracking. In lieu of detailed calculation or experimental
1260 evidence, Clause 8.12.2 shall apply for TSFRC. Reinforcing bars shall also be provided at the side faces
1261 of beams in accordance with Clause A8.12.4.

1262 A8.12.3. Reinforcement

1263 A8.12.3.1. Maximum design crack width of TSFRC

1264 Design crack widths at the SLS shall not exceed the values specified in Table A8.12.1 for the applicable
1265 type of structural component and exposure.
1266
1267 Table A8.12.1
1268 Maximum Design Crack Width

Type of structural component Type of exposure Maximum design crack width,

mm
Non-prestressed De-icing chemicals; spray or 0.25
surface runoff containing de-
icing chemicals; marine spray;
swamp; marsh; salt water;
aggressive backfill
Other environmental exposures 0.35
Prestressed De-icing chemicals; spray or 0.15
surface runoff containing de-
icing chemicals; marine spray;
swamp; marsh; salt water;
aggressive backfill
Other environmental exposures 0.20
1269

1270 A8.12.3.2. Calculation of crack width

1271 A8.12.3.2.1. General

1272 The requirements of Clause A8.12.3.2.1 shall apply to TSFRC containing bonded reinforcing bars in the
1273 tensile zone.
1274 The design crack width, wd, for FRC shall be taken as 𝑠𝑑 [(𝜀𝑠𝑚 − 𝜀𝑐𝑚 ) + 𝜀𝑐𝑠 ].
1275 The design crack spacing 𝑠𝑑 shall be calculated in accordance with Clause A8.8.3.1.2 for flexural
1276 components. For other components, 𝑠𝑑 shall be calculated with a method approved by the Owner.
1277 The reinforcement to concrete slip strain equal to (𝜀𝑠𝑚 − 𝜀𝑐𝑚 ) shall be calculated as follows:
1278
1 (1+𝑛𝜌𝑐𝑒 )
1279 (𝜀𝑠𝑚 − 𝜀𝑐𝑚 ) = [(𝑓𝑠 − 𝑛𝑓𝐹𝑠 ) − 𝛽(𝑓𝑐𝑟𝑚 − 𝑓𝐹𝑠 ) ] (A8.12.1)
𝐸𝑠 𝜌𝑐𝑒

1280

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 40

FRC Canadian Code
1281 Where:
1282 𝑛 = 𝐸𝑠 /𝐸𝑐
1283 𝛽= 0.6
1284 𝑓𝑠 is the stress in the reinforcement at the SLS calculated on the basis of a cracked section with the
1285 tensile effect of fibres 𝑓𝐹𝑠 taken into account.
1286 Alternatively, methods based on nonlinear finite element analysis may be used to calculate the design
1287 maximum crack width. Results from such methods shall be validated and compared to direct tensile test
1288 results.
1289 The design crack width wd is an approximate value used for calculations to obtain appropriate durability.
1290 The design crack width may not match crack widths observed in actual structural members. The
1291 derivation of the strain term (𝜀𝑠𝑚 − 𝜀𝑐𝑚 ) is similar to the approach in fib Model Code 2010 (CEB-FIP
1292 2012).
1293 See also commentary of Clause A8.8.3.1.2.
1294 The shrinkage strain 𝜀𝑐𝑠 is a positive value, corresponding to the shortening of a section and leads to
1295 larger crack widths.
1296 Examples of nonlinear analysis can be found in the literature (de Montaignac et al. 2013, and Lagier et al.
1297 2016b).

1298 A8.12.4. Crack control in the side faces of beams

1299 Crack control reinforcement spacing may be increased or the quantity of crack control reinforcement may
1300 be reduced with respect to Clause 8.12.4 to take into account the bridging effect of the fibres with an
1301 analysis method approved by the Owner.

1302 A8.12.5. Shrinkage and temperature reinforcement

1303 Shrinkage and temperature reinforcement spacing may be increased or the quantity of crack control
1304 reinforcement may be reduced with respect to Clause 8.12.6 to take into account the bridging effect of the
1305 fibres with an analysis method approved by the Owner.

1306 A8.13. Deformation

1307 A8.13.1. General

1308 The requirements of Clause 8.13 shall apply for FRC except as noted in the following clauses.
1309 The contribution of the fibres in FRC related to the tensile properties may be considered in the
1310 determination of deformation with a method approved by the Owner.
1311 In TSFRC, the residual tensile strength generated by the bridging effect of the fibres increases the
1312 stiffness of the member and reduces deformations. In THFRC, the contribution of fibres in the strain-
1313 hardening zone will reduce deformations.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 41

FRC Canadian Code
1314 A8.13.2. Deflections and rotations

1315 A8.13.2.1. Simplified method

1316 For reinforced FRC, the moment of inertia of a cracked section 𝐼𝑐𝑟 used to compute the effective moment
1317 of inertia 𝐼𝑒 at the critical section for a service load 𝑀𝑎 is as follows
1318
1319 𝐼𝑐𝑟 = 𝑀𝑎 /𝐸𝑐 𝜓𝑎 ≤ 𝐼𝑔 (A8.13.1)
1320
1321 where the curvature 𝜓𝑎 may be computed using the sectional design approach outlined in Clause A8.8.4,
1322 but without application of the material resistance factors, to account for the tensile resistance of the
1323 cracked FRC.
1324 Deflections and rotations of prestressed members shall be calculated with a method approved by the
1325 Owner.

1326 A8.14. Reinforcing Details

1327 A8.14.1. General

1328 The requirements of Clause 8.14 shall apply for FRC except as noted in the following clauses.

1329 A8.14.2. Spacing of reinforcement

1330 The provisions of Clause 8.14.2 shall apply except as modified by Clauses A8.14.2.1 and A8.14.2.2. The
1331 clear distance between reinforcing bars and between prestressing strands may be reduced based on
1332 testing and Approval by the Owner.

1333 A8.14.2.1. Reinforcing bars

1334 A8.14.2.1.1.

1335 For cast-in-place FRC, the clear distance between parallel bars in a layer or a ring shall be not less than
1336 (a) 1.5 times the nominal diameter of the bars;
1337 (b) 1.5 times the maximum size of the coarse aggregate;
1338 (c) 1.5 times the fibre length; and
1339 (d) 40 mm

1340 A8.14.2.1.2.

1341 For precast FRC, the clear distance between parallel bars in a layer or a ring shall be not less than
1342 (a) the nominal diameter of the bars;
1343 (b) 1.33 times the maximum size of the coarse aggregate;
1344 (c) 1.33 times the fibre length; and
1345 (d) 25 mm

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 42

FRC Canadian Code
1346 A8.14.2.1.3.

1347 The clear distance between layers shall not be less than
1348 (a) 25 mm
1349 (b) the nominal diameter of the bars; and
1350 (c) the fibre length
1351 Parallel reinforcing bars placed in two or more layers do not need to have the upper bars placed directly
1352 over the lower bars in elements containing self-consolidating FRC as vibration is not required, if adequate
1353 FRC placement can be demonstrated on the reinforcing bar configuration by testing.

1354 A8.14.2.2. Tendons

1355 The clear distance between groups of bundled strands shall not be less than the greater of 1.33 times the
1356 maximum size of the aggregate, 1.33 times the fibre length, or 25 mm.

1357 A8.14.3. Transverse reinforcement for compression components

1358 The clear spacing of spiral reinforcement shall not be less than the greater of 1.33 times the maximum
1359 size of the aggregate, 1.33 times the fibre length, or 25 mm.

1360 A8.15. Development and Splices

1361 A8.15.1. Development

1362 A8.15.1.1. General

1363 The requirements of Clause 8.15 shall apply for FRC except as noted in the following clauses.
1364 The tensile resistance of the cracked FRC may be used to calculate the tension in the reinforcement
1365 using the sectional design approach outlined in Clause A8.8.4.

1366 A8.15.2. Development of reinforcing bars and deformed wire in tension

1367 A8.15.2.1. General

1368 The effect of a shorter development length in FRC shall be considered where it may have a negative
1369 impact on the member behaviour.
1370 Generally, the development length of reinforcing in FRC is shorter or equal to the development length of
1371 reinforcing in concrete without fibres. Development lengths are in particular shortened for UHPFRC,
1372 where research has shown that the transfer length can be less than 300 mm (FHWA-HRT-13-060).
1373 While this is typically advantageous, shorter development lengths can lead to higher stress
1374 concentrations in anchorage zones or reduce overall member ductility. The Engineer needs to consider
1375 these effects in the design and make adjustments to the design where required. There is insufficient
1376 research to generalize the development length of reinforcing in FRC. Some guidance exists in the
1377 literature including in FHWA-HRT-14-089 (FHWA-HRT-14-089 applies to UHPFRC only).

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 43

FRC Canadian Code
1378 A8.16. Anchorage zone reinforcement
1379 A8.16.1. General

1380 The provisions of Section 8.16 shall apply unless approved by the Owner.
1381 Anchorage zone reinforcing provisions are largely test based, and there is very little information available
1382 on how fibres impact the anchorage zone behaviour. Therefore, no provisions regarding FRC for
1383 anchorage zone reinforcement have been included in this edition of the Annex.

1384 A8.16.2. Post-tensioning anchorage zones

1385 A8.16.2.1. General

1386 The contribution of steel fibres shall be neglected unless otherwise demonstrated by testing or other
1387 methods approved by the Owner.
1388 There is limited information on the effects of fibres in post-tensioning zones. Thus, the beneficial effect of
1389 fibres needs to be demonstrated on a case-by-case basis. Any decrease in the tensile capacity of the
1390 FRC from creep, shrinkage or other deformation effects need to be taken into account in the design.

1391 A8.16.2.2. General zone – approximate method

1392 The contribution of fibres shall be neglected when using the approximate method to determine the
1393 general zone reinforcing requirements unless approved by the Owner. The approximate method shall
1394 only be applied to concretes with a specified compressive strength of 85 MPa or less.
1395 The approximate method is an empirical method developed for normal strength concrete. Careful
1396 consideration is required to extend the approximate method to include the tensile contribution of the
1397 fibres. Caution is required in particular for THFRC and high compressive strengths.
1398

1399 A8.16.3. Pretensioning anchorage zones

1400 The effects of shorter transfer lengths of prestressing strands in FRC shall be considered in the design of
1401 pretensioning anchorage zones.
1402 Dependent on the type of FRC used, development and transfer lengths can be significantly shorter than
1403 the equations for concrete given in Section 8 of S6-14. For example, research on UHPFRC has shown
1404 that the transfer length can be less than 300 mm (FHWA-HRT-13-060).Shorter transfer lengths lead to
1405 the introduction of large forces over short lengths. The Engineer needs to consider these effects in the
1406 design and make adjustments to the design where required. Examples for possible adjustments are
1407 debonding of strands, appropriate sizing of the area of the anchorage zone and appropriate reinforcing
1408 detailing in the pretensioning anchorage zones.
1409 There is currently not sufficient information in the literature to provide design rules for pretensioning
1410 anchorage zones in FRC.

1411 A8.17. Seismic design and detailing

1412 The requirements of Clause 8.17 shall apply. The use of FRC in seismic applications requires approval by
1413 the Owner.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 44

FRC Canadian Code
1414 Research has shown that FRC can improve member behaviour under seismic conditions (FIB 2018). For
1415 example, fibre reinforced concrete can contribute positively to ductility and energy dissipation. However,
1416 there is insufficient data to standardize the requirements for seismic design of FRC members. The use of
1417 FRC in seismic applications requires a good understanding of member behaviour under seismic loading
1418 and good understanding of FRC, and this needs to be addressed on a case-by-case basis.
1419 The benefits of fibres in seismic applications depend on several parameters and need to be determined
1420 on a case-by-case basis. Where there is insufficient information on the seismic performance for a FRC,
1421 the effect of fibres should be neglected.
1422 When FRC members are used in seismic applications, it is important to consider the full probable strength
1423 and the associated ductility of the FRC member in order to avoid unintended overstrength and force
1424 redistribution in the structural system.
1425 Failures in FRC members have been observed in overly shortened lap splices in seismic (low cycle
1426 fatigue) testing and fibre buckling has been observed for high crack opening amplitude in these cases
1427 (Verger-Leboeuf et al. 2017).

1428 A8.18. Bridge decks

1429 A8.18.1. Full depth FRC slabs

1430 The requirements of Clause 8.18 shall apply for FRC except as noted in the following clauses.
1431 The total slab thickness shall be greater or equal to 150 mm and the ratio of the spacing of the supporting
1432 beams to the thickness of the slab is less or equal to 20 for UHPFRC in accordance with CSA A23.1.
1433 For exposed decks with UHPFRC with a durability category of DL100 or greater in accordance with CSA
1434 A23.1 Annex U, the allowance for wear may be reduced to 5 mm.
1435 Precast concrete decks do not require prestressing across the connections if the connections are in
1436 accordance with Clause A8.20.
1437 Full depth FRC deck slabs with a compressive strength of less than 120 MPa shall be in accordance with
1438 Clause 8.18.
1439 The use of the empirical method in accordance with Clause 8.18.4 may lead to excessive reinforcing in a
1440 deck slab with FRC. Thus, flexural methods are preferred over the empirical method.
1441 The performance and design of cast-in-place FRC deck with reduced flexural reinforcement can be found
1442 in Massicotte et al. 2016. The design of precast deck elements made with various type of TSFRC and
1443 THFRC can be found in Duchesneau et al. 2011 and Lachance et al. 2016.

1444 A8.18.2. Waffle decks

1445 This clause applies only to waffle decks of at least a UHPC Category 120-H-DL100, in accordance with
1446 CSA A23.1 Annex U.
1447 The minimum overall depth of the waffle deck shall be 200 mm.
1448 Waffle decks shall have ribs in longitudinal and transverse directions at a maximum spacing of 750 mm
1449 centre to centre for a supporting girder spacing of up to 2500 mm and a maximum rib spacing of 600 mm
1450 for supporting girder spacing between 2500 mm and 3000 mm.
1451 The minimum thickness of a waffle deck slab (between ribs) shall be 60 mm.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 45

FRC Canadian Code
1452 Each rib of the waffle deck slabs shall have a minimum of one 20M bar or equivalent prestressing strand
1453 in the top and bottom of the rib to provide flexural resistance in the waffle slab. The maximum spacing
1454 requirements in Clause 8.14.2.1.5 may be waived for waffle slabs.
1455 The waffle deck shall be designed to act compositely with the supporting girders.
1456 The overhang sections of a waffle deck shall be solid and designed to accommodate barrier loadings and
1457 anchorages.
1458 The requirements of waffle slabs are empirical and based on FHWA Publication No. FHWA-HIF-13-032
1459 (2013). The FRC examined in the publication had a compressive strength greater or equal to 120 MPa
1460 and 2% fibre content. The use of other materials for waffle decks shall be carefully evaluated.

1461 A8.18.3. Distribution reinforcement

1462 Distribution reinforcement in the top layer of deck slabs as required in Clause 8.18.7 may be eliminated in
1463 zones of positive bending moment provided the requirements of Clause A8.15 are met. Bending moments
1464 induced by dead and live loads, including torsional effects, shall be determined according to Clause 5.9.
1465 Bridge decks using TSFRC with reduced amounts of conventional reinforcement for flexure have been
1466 designed and built (Massicotte et al. 2016). The FRC needs to be designed to control cracking in the deck
1467 slab. Tensile forces associated with shrinkage and other restraint effects shall be included in the analysis.
1468 Zones of positive bending moments are zones of general deck compression, which are created from
1469 global superstructure force effects such as midspan regions of slab-on-girder bridge systems. Top layer
1470 reinforcing can be eliminated in these zones as shown in Figure CA8.18.1.
2 main reinforcement layers 2 main reinforcement layers

2 distribution reinforcement layers 1 distribution reinforcement layer

1471 a) Conventional reinforcement b) Reduced reinforcement with SFRC
1472 Figure CA8.18.1
1473 Deck slab reinforcing with and without FRC

1474 A8.19. FRC overlays

1475 A8.19.1. General

1476 This section covers overlays for decks, piers, columns and other applications (substrate) where a FRC
1477 protection and/or structural layer, i.e. an overlay, is applied.
1478 Reinforced concrete with an applied layer of FRC may be used to reduce the permeability of the surface.
1479 In addition to reducing the permeability, a reinforced FRC layer may be used to increase bending, shear
1480 and fatigue strength (FHWA-HRT-17-096).
1481 The Engineer needs to select the FRC based on durability and structural requirements. For example, for
1482 TSFRC with conventional strengths (compressive strengths smaller or equal to 85 MPa), no
1483 improvements to the permeability are expected, however, the fibres can be used to control cracking. For
1484 THFRC that remains in the strain-hardening zone, no localized cracks exist, and this has a beneficial
1485 effect on durability.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 46

FRC Canadian Code
1486 Research has shown that UHPC Category 120-H DL100 or better, the capillary pore network is
1487 discontinuous, and this significantly reduces the ingress of any liquids (Cheyrezy et al. 1995, Roux et al.
1488 1996, Thomas et al. 2012). Thus, the durability of members with a tension-hardening UHPFRC overlay
1489 can significantly improve the durability of members (Charron et al. 2008 and Charron and Desmettre
1490 2015) when compared to normal or high performance concretes, as long as the UHPFRC remains in the
1491 strain-hardening domain.
1492 The contribution of FRC overlays to strength depends on the mechanical properties of the UHPFRC. The
1493 contribution of FRC to reinforced overlays can be significant (Brühwiler and Denarie 2013 and Brühwiler
1494 2017).

1495 A8.19.1.1. Effect of restraint

1496 The effects of restraint in the overlay and substrate shall be considered in the design. When determining
1497 stresses at serviceability, fatigue and ultimate limit states, initial strains due to the restraint deformations,
1498 stresses existing in the concrete element prior to application of the overlay or stresses due to prestressing
1499 shall be considered.
1500 The construction of THFRC or TSFRC overlays leads to a residual stress state, usually accompanied with
1501 residual tensile stresses in the THFRC or TSFRC. Tensile stresses are induced in overlays by restraint
1502 deformations, mostly due to shrinkage, creep, and temperature effects. This can affect cracking
1503 behaviour, durability, strength and other aspects to the design. The residual stress state depends on the
1504 properties of the materials and the structure. SIA 2052 presents a simplified method to determine the
1505 degree of restraint in the overlay and derive conclusions on the performance of UHPFRC.

1506 A8.19.1.2. Delamination at or near Interface

1507 Overlays and protective layers shall be designed so that there is no delamination between the THFRC or
1508 TSFRC and the concrete substrate.
1509 The main contributions to stresses at the interface, leading to delamination, shrinkage in the overlay and
1510 mechanical action (FHWA-HRT-17-096). The risk of delamination of the overlay layer can be minimized
1511 by considering the following:
1512  Treatment of the contact surface of the concrete substrate by methods such as high-pressure
1513 water jets or sandblasting (see SIA 2052).
1514  Full removal of loose particles and substances (like grease, oil, etc.) weakening the bond.
1515  Achieve a roughness profile of the contact surface of the concrete substrate between 3 and 5
1516 mm. The removal of the cement skin of the concrete substrate is not sufficient.
1517  Additional information on surface preparation can be found in CSA A23.1 Annex U on Ultra-High-
1518 Performance Concrete, Section 7.
1519 Reinforcing dowels may be installed across the interface between the layers to enhance the robustness
1520 of the resistance against delamination.

1521 A8.19.1.3. Surface preparation

1522 Prior to the placement of the overlay, the surface of the substrate concrete to receive the overlay shall be
1523 free of loose particles or contamination, prewetted to SSD and roughened to enhance bond, in
1524 accordance with CSA A23.1 Annex U, Section 7.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 47

FRC Canadian Code
1525 A8.19.1.4. Construction joints

1526 Construction joints shall be detailed such that force transfer is assured across the interface in order to
1527 avoid premature cracking in the joints.
1528 More information can be found in SIA 2052 for suggested construction joint detail for THFRC overlays
1529 with a compressive strength larger or equal to 120 MPa (UHPFRC).

1530 A8.19.2. FRC overlays with compressive strength of less than 120 MPa

1531 This section applies to FRC with a minimum fibre content of 20 kg/m 3 and a compressive strength of less
1532 than 120 MPa.
1533 The minimum overall thickness of an unreinforced FRC overlay shall be 40 mm.
1534 The minimum overall thickness of a reinforced FRC overlay shall be 70 mm.
1535 The minimum clear spacing between the underside of any reinforcing and the substrate shall be 10 mm.
1536 The minimum thickness of a reinforced overlay is derived by adding the clear spacing between the
1537 substrate and reinforcing, the depth of the reinforcing and the specified cover.
1538 The maximum thickness of unreinforced FRC overlays needs to be carefully investigated to avoid large
1539 cracks or other effects that may affect the efficiency of the overlay. A maximum thickness of 100 mm is
1540 recommended.

1541 A8.19.3. THFRC overlays with compressive strength equal to or greater than
1542 120 MPa (UHPFRC)

1543 This section applies to UHPC Category 120-H DL100 or better in accordance with CSA A23.3 Annex U.
1544 The minimum overall thickness of a non-reinforced THFRC overlay shall be 20 mm and the maximum
1545 overall thickness shall be 60 mm.
1546 The minimum overall thickness of a reinforced THFRC overlay shall be 50 mm.
1547 The minimum clear spacing between the underside of the reinforcing and the substrate shall be 10 mm.
1548 When applied correctly, UHPC Category 120-H DL100 or better in accordance with CSA A23.3 Annex U
1549 can provide a protection (due to its low permeability) and strengthening layer as well as a wearing
1550 surface. A reinforced THFRC overlay may be used to increase bending, shear and fatigue strength.
1551 When the FRC is tension-hardening and remains within the tension-hardening range after all residual
1552 stresses and loading stresses have been considered, the FRC layer may be considered to be
1553 impermeable to liquids at the serviceability state, despite residual tensile stresses.
1554 The use of reinforced THFRC (i.e. THFRC with embedded reinforcing bars), increases the ultimate
1555 resistance and the stiffness of composite FRC-reinforced concrete members and leads to better crack
1556 distribution due to the tension-stiffening of the reinforcing bars.
1557 The minimum thickness of a reinforced overlay is derived by adding the clear spacing between the
1558 substrate and reinforcing, the depth of the reinforcing and the specified cover.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 48

FRC Canadian Code
1559 A8.20. UHPFRC field cast connections for precast bridge elements
1560 A8.20.1. General

1561 This section provides guidance for the structural design of prefabricated bridge element connections
1562 using at least a UHPC Category 120-H-DL100, in accordance with CSA A23.1 Annex U.
1563 Connections between prefabricated bridge elements shall be designed to develop the yield strength of the
1564 deformed steel reinforcement bars extending from the prefabricated concrete elements.
1565 The requirements for UHPFRC field cast connections for precast bridge elements are empirical and
1566 based on FHWA Technical Note FHWA-HRT-14-084. The UHPFRC examined in the publication had final
1567 compressive strengths greater or equal to 120 MPa and 2% fibre content. The use of other materials for
1568 connections shall be carefully evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
1569 Development of reinforcing bars can be provided through sufficient embedment length, through bar
1570 hoops/hooks/heads, or through mechanical couplers. With UHPC Category 120-H-DL100, it is commonly
1571 cost effective and practical to develop deformed steel reinforcement through a straight length of
1572 embedded bar (FHWA-HRT-10-023).

1573 A8.20.2. Maximum flow length

1574 The maximum flow length from point of discharge to final resting place of field-cast UHPFRC within
1575 connection details shall be 3 m in length.
1576 UHPFRC has been demonstrated to be capable of flowing at least 3 m within a haunch connection detail.
1577 Long flow distances around discrete reinforcements can interrupt the dispersion of the fiber
1578 reinforcement, which could reduce the mechanical resistance of the UHPFRC.

1579 A8.20.3. Closure strips between deck-level prefabricated bridge elements

1580 A8.20.3.1. Minimum embedment length

1581 For field-cast joints above longitudinal or transverse girders, the minimum embedment length of deformed
1582 steel reinforcement, ℓd, shall be 8db for db ≤ 25 mm and fy≤ 500 MPa, and 10 db for fy between 500 MPa
1583 and 700 MPa.
1584 For field-cast joints between girders, in the transverse or longitudinal direction, the minimum embedment
1585 length of deformed steel reinforcement shall be 10db for db ≤ 25 mm and fy ≤ 500 MPa, and 12 db for fy
1586 between 500 MPa and 700 MPa.
1587 In addition, the following conditions shall be met:
1588 (a) Field-cast UHPFRC shall have a minimum compressive strength of at least 100 MPa before
1589 being subjected to any construction loading.
1590 (b) The clear cover shall be equal to or larger than 3db.
1591 The minimum embedment length of deformed steel reinforcement with fy < 700 MPa and with cover
1592 between 2db and 3db shall be increased by 2db.
1593 The embedment length is the length that the reinforcing bar is embedded into the connection measured
1594 from the edge of the connection where the reinforcing bar enters the connection to the reinforcing bar
1595 end.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 49

FRC Canadian Code
1596 Some research (FHWA-HRT-14-084) has demonstrated that deformed steel reinforcement in UHPFRC
1597 can be developed within comparatively short embedment lengths. An embedment length of 8db is
1598 sufficient for most common reinforcement configurations, including the use of epoxy-coated reinforcement
1599 in negative moment regions above girders. For positive moment regions, research (Marleau et al. 2018)
1600 with embedment length of 10db and lap-splice equal to 8db, has shown that UHPFRC with a compressive
1601 strength greater or equal to 120 MPa and 2% fibre content has adequate fatigue performance while
1602 subjected to fatigue with a stress variation in the reinforcement at the cold joint-precast slab interface of
1603 125 MPa. Increased confinement of the bar, increased compressive strength of the UHPFRC and/or
1604 decreased bar stress demand can allow shorter embedment lengths. A minimum compressive strength at
1605 the time of loading of 100 MPa is specified to facilitate use of UHPFRC in accelerated construction when
1606 early application of construction loads to newly completed connections is advantageous. The specified
1607 compressive strength of the UHPFRC at 28 days is greater than 120 MPa.
1608 The increased stress and strain demand of high-strength reinforcement necessitates an increase in the
1609 embedment length.
1610 A decrease in the cover results in reduced confinement of the bar and will necessitate an increase in the
1611 embedment length.

1612 A8.20.3.2. Lap splices

1613 For lap splices of straight lengths of deformed steel reinforcement, the lap-splice length, ℓs, shall be at
1614 least 0.75ℓd.
1615 Maximum clear spacing to the nearest lap-spliced bar shall be less than or equal to ℓs. Minimum spacing
1616 between adjacent bars shall be 1.5 fibre length and meet the requirement in CSA A23.1 Annex U,
1617 Section 6.
1618 Research (FHWA-HRT-14-084) has demonstrated that passive reinforcement embedded ℓd into a
1619 connection and spliced with adjoining bars to have a lap of 0.75ℓd can sustain static and cyclic loads that
1620 cause rupture of the reinforcing bar outside of the connection.
1621 Off-set of lapping bars is required in order to ensure the flowing and consolidation of the UHPFRC fully
1622 around the bars and to facilitate non-interference of the protruding bars in placing the adjacent precast
1623 elements.

1624 A8.20.3.3. Reinforcing detailing

1625 Deformed bars extending from precast elements shall be detailed to account for tolerances associated
1626 with field installation of components throughout the structure.
1627 To reduce the incidences of interferences and construction delays from fitting up precast components in
1628 the field, tolerances should be increased whenever possible.

1629 A8.20.3.4. Shear keys

1630 Precast component interfaces for deck panel to deck panel connections with UHPFRC shall have
1631 recessed shear keys.
1632 A shear key detail facilitates compression strut transfer of applied loads without relying on dowel action of
1633 reinforcing bars. It also can provide added embedment length for reinforcing bars and added interface
1634 area for enhanced interface bond. Examples for shear keys can be found in FHWA-HRT-14-084.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 50

FRC Canadian Code
1635 A8.20.3.5. Surface preparation

1636 Prior to the placement of the field-cast UHPFRC, the surfaces of the precast concrete components to
1637 receive the field-cast UHPFRC shall be free of loose particles or contamination, prewetted to SSD and
1638 roughened to enhance bond, in accordance with CSA A23.1 Annex U, Section 7.

1639 A8.20.4. Interface connections between prefabricated bridge decks and

1640 supporting girders

1641 A8.20.4.1. General

1642 The interface connection between prefabricated bridge decks and prefabricated concrete or steel girders
1643 shall be in accordance with Clause 8.9.5, and Clause 10.11.8.3.3 if the following conditions are met:
1644 (a) The FRC shall be UHPC Category 120-H DL100 or better in accordance with CSA A23.3
1645 Annex U.
1646 (b) The vertical clear distance from top of the girder shear connectors to the bottom of the deck shear
1647 connectors is less than 75 mm.
1648 (c) The cyclic shear stress on the minimum interface shear plane at the fatigue limit state is less than
1649 1 MPa.
1650 (d) The static shear stress on the minimum interface shear plane at the ultimate limit state is less
1651 than 5 MPa.
1652 Some research (FHWA-HRT-14-084) has demonstrated that field-cast UHPFRC with 2% steel fibre
1653 content, a compressive strength greater or equal to 120 MPa, and a Durability Limit of at least DL100 in
1654 accordance with CSA A23.1 Annex U is capable of carrying shear stresses through the FRC without the
1655 aid of passive reinforcement. This detail allows the elimination of conflict points between the passive
1656 connectors in the deck and the girder. An exposed bottom mat of deck reinforcement above the girder
1657 line can be engaged by the field-cast FRC. Shear stress calculations on the FRC must consider the
1658 minimum shear section of the FRC. Examples for FRC composite connection between the deck panel
1659 and precast or steel support girder are given in FHWA-HRT-14-084.

1660 A8.20.4.2. Surface preparation

1661 Prior to the placement of the field-cast UHPFRC, the surface of the prefabricated concrete components to
1662 receive the field-cast UHPFRC shall be free of loose particles or contamination, prewetted to SSD and
1663 roughened to an amplitude of 6 mm to enhance bond, in accordance with CSA A23.1 Annex U, Section 7.
1664 Roughening of precast concrete interfaces allows increased FRC bond at the interface and reduces the
1665 local interface shear stresses carried by the discrete steel reinforcement crossing the interface. An
1666 amplitude of 6 mm of the concrete substrate is recommended at the underside of the deck panel above
1667 the supporting girder (FHWA-HRT-14-084).
1668 Information on the testing of moment resistant column to footing connections can be found in Tazarv and
1669 Saiidi (2013).

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 51

FRC Canadian Code
1670 A8.21. Link slabs for bridge decks
1671 A8.21.1. General

1672 Link slabs shall be designed for the following conditions:

1673 (a) Continuity of the existing bridge deck slab,
1674 (b) Adjacent girders remain simply supported and the ends are free to rotate,
1675 (c) The link slab shall accommodate compatibility bending and cracking under superimposed dead
1676 and live loadings,
1677 (d) The link slab shall be designed to accommodate direct tensile loads due to external bearing
1678 restraints and longitudinal movement of girders due to thermal effects and rotational translation.
1679 (e) The geometric requirements and limitations given for flexible and debonded link slabs in Lai and
1680 Patel 2001 and Lam et al. 2008.
1681 Flexible link slabs in accordance with this Section shall be used for relatively short spans with girder end
1682 rotation ≤ 0.0035 rad and girder depth ≤ 1 m and be in accordance with Clause A.8.21.2.
1683 For girder end rotations > 0.0035 rad and for girder depth > 1 m, debonded link slab with FRC in
1684 accordance with this Section shall be used to control crack width and to improve toughness of the
1685 concrete due to cyclic loading and be in accordance with Clause A.8.21.2. The length of debonded link
1686 slab shall be 5% of the span length on each side of the pier.
1687 Many slab on girder bridges were originally constructed with expansion joint over piers making the spans
1688 simply supported. During rehabilitation of these bridges, flexible link or debonded link slab can be used to
1689 eliminate the expansion joints over piers in order to prevent further leakage of salt laden water onto
1690 substructures and the ends of girders. With the use of a link slab the existing bridge deck slab will be
1691 made continuous while the girder ends remain simply supported and the girder ends are free to rotate
1692 while the link slab will be subjected to compatibility bending and cracking under superimposed dead load
1693 and live load (Li et al. 2005 and Caner and Zia 1998). The link slab will also be subjected to direct tensile
1694 load due to external bearing restraints and longitudinal movement of girders due to thermal effect and
1695 rotational translation (Lai and Patel 2001 and Lam et al. 2008)).
1696 The link slab will require to be very heavily reinforced with normal steel reinforcement and consolidation
1697 of concrete can be a concern. FRC can be used for flexible link slab to allow reduction in the amount of
1698 normal steel reinforcement and better control of the crack width.

1699 A8.21.2. Fibre, dosage and required tensile properties

1700 Synthetic fibre or steel fibre shall be used in the FRC for link slabs. Table A8.21.1 gives the minimum
1701 performance requirements for the allowable uses of link slabs:
1702

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 52

FRC Canadian Code
1703 Table A8.21.1
1704 Performance Criteria for FRC in Link Slabs

Synthetic Fibre Steel Fibre

Flexible Link Slab For crack control: For crack control:
 Fibre dosage ≥ 0.5% by volume  Fibre dosage ≥ 0.5% by volume
 Residual tensile strength ≥  Residual tensile strength ≥
2 MPa at L/600 according to 2 MPa at L/600 according to
ASTM C1609. ASTM C1609.

For contribution to flexural capacity: For contribution to flexural capacity:

 Fibre dosage> 1.5% by volume  Fibre dosage > 1.5% by volume
 Residual tensile strength ≥  Residual tensile strength ≥
2.4 MPa at L/150 according to 2.4 MPa at L/150 according to
ASTM C1609. ASTM C1609.
Debonded Link Slab For crack control: For crack control:
 Fibre dosage ≥ 0.5% by volume  Fibre dosage ≥ 0.5% by volume
 Residual tensile strength ≥  Residual tensile strength ≥
2 MPa at L/600 according to 2 MPa at L/600 according to
ASTM C1609. ASTM C1609.

For contribution to flexural capacity: For contribution to flexural capacity:

 Fibre dosage ≥ 1.5% by volume  Fibre dosage ≥ 1.5% by volume
 Residual tensile strength ≥  Residual tensile strength ≥
2.4 MPa at L/150 according to 2.4 MPa at L/150 according to
ASTM C1609. ASTM C1609.
1705
1706 Only macro structural fibre engineered with an appropriate aspect ratio shall be used in link slabs due to
1707 the demand in toughness and anchorage of the fibre. The material properties of fibre shall meet the
1708 requirements of CSA A23.1 Annex U.
1709 Flexural beam tests shall be conducted in accordance with ASTM C1609, the test setup shall be
1710 according to CSA A23.1 Annex U.

1711 A8.21.3. Design of FRC link slab section for flexure

1712 When FRC is used to reduce the amount of normal flexural reinforcement in the link slab, the following
1713 shall apply:
1714 (a) The force effects in the link slab shall be obtained using the transformed cracked section
1715 properties of the FRC slab and the normal reinforcement.
1716 (b) Flexural design that accounts for the tensile properties of FRC in conjunction with normal steel
1717 reinforcement shall be according to the flexural model in this Annex. The amount of normal steel

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 53

FRC Canadian Code
1718 reinforcement shall be adequate to resist at least 50% of the total force effects when combined
1719 with FRC.
1720 (c) When synthetic fibre is used, the maximum in-service temperature of the link slab and the
1721 corresponding modulus of the synthetic fibre shall be used in assessing the contribution of FRC
1722 to flexural capacity and crack width.
1723 (d) The individual spans shall be designed as simply supported for flexure; continuity moment shall
1724 be considered for the other load effects.

1725 A8.22. Production of FRC

1726 A8.22.1. General

1727 Manufacture and production control of FRC shall be undertaken in accordance with CSA A23.1 Annex U.
1728 Manufacture and production control for FRC with aggregates with a size of 5mm or greater or with a
1729 specified compressive strength of less than 120 MPa shall, in addition, comply to the requirements of
1730 Clause A8.22.2.

1731 A8.22.2. Fibre content determination

1732 Fibre content shall be measured from samples taken from the production concrete and carried out in
1733 accordance with CSA A23.2-16C.
1734 In addition,
1735 (a) a sample shall be taken from the batch of concrete at unloading from the first third, middle third
1736 and final third of the batch;
1737 (b) each sample shall be a minimum of 7 litres;
1738 (c) the sample container shall be filled in one continuous pour and where possible directly from the
1739 discharge chute;
1740 (d) wash-out, magnetic separation or validated automated dosage equipment shall be used.
1741 The fibre content shall be deemed to comply provided the criteria in Table A8.22.1 are met.
1742
1743 Table A8.22.1
1744 Criteria of Acceptance for Fibre Dosage

Frequency Test control Criteria

Each sample Each partial test 0.80 of the specified target
dosage
Average of 3 samples Each test 0.85 of the specified target
from the batch dosage
Continuous control: Continuous control: 0.90 of the specified target
average of >3 tests average of >3 tests dosage
1745

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 54

FRC Canadian Code
1746 References
1747 CSA Group
1748 CSA A23.1-19/A23.2-19. Concrete materials and methods of concrete construction/Test methods and
1749 standard practices for concrete.
1750 CSA A23.3-14. Design of concrete structures.
1751
1752 AFGC (Association of French Society of Civil Engineers)
1753 AFGC, Groupe de travail BFUP. 2013. Ultra High Performance Fibre-Reinforced Concretes - 2013
1754 Recommendations, Paris, France
1755
1756 ASTM International
1757 ASTM C1609. Standard Test Method for Flexural Performance of Fiber-Reinforced Concrete (Using
1758 Beam with Third-Point Loading). West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International; 2012: 9 pp.
1759 ASTM C1856/C1856M. Standard Practice for Fabricating and Testing Specimens of Ultra-High
1760 Performance Concrete. West Conshohocken, PA: ASTM International; 2017: 4 pp.
1761
1762 Australian Standards
1763 Standards Australia AS 5100. 2017. Bridge Design. Sydney, Australia.
1764
1765 CEN (European Committee for Standardization)
1766 European Committee for Standardization (CEN). 2004. Design of Concrete Structures – Part 1-1: General
1767 Rules and Rules for Buildings. Eurocode 2, European Standard BS EN 1992-1-1: 2004. Brussels: 230 pp.
1768
1769 EN (European Normes)
1770 EN 14651. Test Method for Metallic Fibre Concrete Measuring the Flexural Tensile Strength (Limit of
1771 Proportionality (LOP), Residual). European Committee for Standardization: Brussels, Belgium; 2007: 17
1772 pp.
1773
1774 FHWA (Federal Highway Administration)
1775 Aaleti, S., Petersen, B., Sritharan, S. 2013. Design Guide for Precast UHPC Waffle Deck Panel System,
1776 including Connections. FHWA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Publication No. FHWA-HIF-13-032.
1777 Graybeal, B.A. 2010. Behavior of Field-Cast Ultra-High Performance Concrete Bridge Deck Connections
1778 Under Cyclic and Static Structural Loading, FHWA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Report No.
1779 FHWA-HRT-10-023, National Technical Information Service, Accession No. PB2011-101995.
1780 Graybeal, B. 2012. Ultra-High Performance Concrete Composite Connections for Precast Concrete
1781 Bridge Decks, US. Department of Transportation, TechBrief FHWA-HRT-12-042, National Technical
1782 Information Service, Accession No. PB2012-107569.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 55

FRC Canadian Code
1783 Haber, Z. B., De la Varga, I., Graybeal, B.A., Nakashoji, B., and El-Helou, R. 2018. Properties and
1784 Behavior of UHPC-Class Materials. FHWA, U.S. Department of Transportation, FHWA-HRT-18-036,
1785 McLean, VA.
1786 Graybeal, B.A. 2014. Design and Construction of Field-Cast UHPC Connections. FHWA, U.S.
1787 Department of Transportation, Technical Note FHWA-HRT-14-084, McLean, VA.
1788 Haber, Z.B., Munoz, J.F., Graybeal, B.A. 2017. Field Testing of an Ultra-High Performance Concrete
1789 Overlay. FHWA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Report No. FHWA-HRT-17-096, McLean, VA.
1790 Russel, H., Graybeal, B.A. 2013. Ultra-High Performance Concrete: A State-of-the-Art Report for the
1791 Bridge Community. FHWA, U.S. Department of Transportation, Report No. FHWA-HRT-13-060.
1792 Yuan, J., Graybeal, B.A. 2014. Bond Behavior of Reinforcing Steel in Ultra-High Performance Concrete.
1793 FHWA, U.S. Department of Transportation, TechBrief FHWA-HRT-14-089, McLean, VA.
1794
1795 FIB (Federation International du Béton)
1796 Fédération Internationale du Béton (FIB). 2018. Design of FRC Structures – TG4.1. State-of-Art Rep.,
1797 CEB-FIB bulletin (not assigned yet), Lausanne, Switzerland. In press.
1798 CEB-FIP. 2012. fib Model Code 2010. Vol.1, Final Draft, fib bulletin 66.
1799
1800 DAfStb (German Committee for Structural Concrete)
1801 DAfStb. 2015. Commentary on the DAfStb Guideline “Steel Fibre Reinforced Concrete”, DAfStb, Heft 614
1802 (en), Beuth, Berlin.
1803
1804 NF (Association of French Standards)
1805 NF P18-710. 2016. National addition to Eurocode 2 - Design of concrete structures: Specific rules for
1806 ultra-high performance fibre-reinforced concrete (UHPFRC).
1807
1808 RILEM
1809 RILEM TC 162-TDF. 2002. Test and design methods for steel fibre reinforced concrete - Bending Test.
1810 Materials and Structures, Vol. 35, pp. 579-582.
1811
1812 SIA (Swiss Society of Engineers and Architects)
1813 Swiss Standard SIA 2052. 2016. UHPFRC: Materials, Design and Application. Lausanne, Switzerland.
1814
1815 Other publications
1816 Abrishambaf A, Barros J.A, and Cunha V.M. 2013. Relation between fibre distribution and post-cracking
1817 behaviour in steel fibre reinforced self-compacting concrete panels. Cement and Concrete Research, V.
1818 51, pp. 57-66.
1819 Amin, A., Foster, S.J., Muttoni, A. 2015. Derivation of the σ–w relationship for SFRC from prism bending
1820 tests, Structural Concrete, 16(1), pp. 93-105.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 56

FRC Canadian Code
1821 Bentz, E.C, and Collins M.P, 2006. Development of the 2004 Canadian Standards Association (CSA)
1822 A23.3 shear provisions for reinforced concrete, Can. J. Civ. Eng. Vol. 33, pp. 521-534.
1823
1824 Blanco, A., Pujadas, P., de la Fuente, A., Cavalaro, S., and Aguado, A. 2015. Assessment of the fibre
1825 orientation factor in SFRC slabs. Composites Part B: Engineering, V. 68, pp. 343-354.
1826 Brühwiler, E., and Denarié, E., 2013, Rehabilitation and Strengthening of Concrete Structures Using
1827 Ultra-High Performance Fibre Reinforced Concrete, Structural Engineering International, V. 23, No. 4, pp.
1828 450-457.
1829 Brühwiler E. 2017 Conceptual design and construction of lightweight R-UHPFRC bridges. 2017 IABSE
1830 Symposium, Vancouver, Canada.
1831 Caner, A., Zia, P. 1998. Behaviour and Design of Link slab for Jointless Bridge Decks, PCI Journal, May-
1832 June 1998, pp. 68-80.
1833 Casanova, P., Rossi, P. and Schaller, I. 1997. Can Steel Fibers Replace Transverse Reinforcements in
1834 Reinforced Concrete Beams? ACI Structural Journal. V. 94, No. 5, pp. 341-354.
1835 Charron, J.-P.; Denarié, E.; and Brühwiler, E., 2008, Transport Properties of Water and Glycol in an Ultra
1836 High Performance Fiber Reinforced Concrete (UHPFRC) under High Tensile Deformation, Cement and
1837 Concrete Research, V. 38, No. 5, pp. 689-698. doi: 10.1016/j. cemconres.2007.12.006
1838 Charron, J.-P. and Desmettre, C. 2015. Intérêt pour l'utilisation des bétons renforcés de fibres pour la
1839 construction d'ouvrages d'art durables. Report SR15-01, Group for Research in Structural Engineering,
1840 Polytechnique Montréal.
1841 Cheyrezy, M., Maret, V., Frouin L. 1995. Microstructural analysis of RPC (Reactive Powder Concrete),
1842 Cement and Concrete Research, Vol. 25, No. 7, pp 1491-1500.
1843 Duchesneau F., Charron J.-P. and Massicotte B. 2011. Hybrid and monolithic precast bridge parapets in
1844 high and ultra high performance fibre reinforced concretes. Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering, 38 (8),
1845 859-869.
1846 Foster S.J., Agarwal, A. 2018. Towards a Unified Approach for Shear Design of SFRC and UHPFRC
1847 Girders, fib Bulletin 85: Towards a rational understanding of shear in beams and slabs, International
1848 Federation for Structural Concrete (fib), Lausanne, Switzerland [in-press].
1849 Foster, S.J., Agarwal, A., Amin, A. 2018. Design of steel fiber reinforced concrete beams for shear using
1850 inverse analysis for determination of residual tensile strength, Structural Concrete, Vol. 19, No. 1, 2018,
1851 pp. 129–140.
1852 Graybeal, B.A., Baby, F. 2013. Development of Direct Tension Test Method for Ultra-High Performance
1853 Fibre-Reinforced Concrete, ACI Materials Journal, March-April 2013, No. 110-M17, pp. 177-186.
1854 Lachance, F., Charron, J.-P., Massicotte, B. 2016. Development of precast bridge slabs in high and ultra-
1855 high performance fiber reinforced concretes. ACI Structural Journal. 113, 929-939.
1856 Lagier, F., Massicotte, B., Charron, J.-P. 2016a. Experimental investigation of bond stress distribution and
1857 bond strength in unconfined UHPFRC lap splices under direct tension. Cement and Concrete Composite
1858 Journal. 74, 26-38.
1859 Lagier, F., Massicotte, B., Charron, J.-P. 2016b. 3D Nonlinear Finite Element Modeling of Lap Splices in
1860 UHPFRC. ASCE Journal of Structural Engineering. 142(11).
1861 Lai, D., Patel, N. 2001. Development of Flexible Link Slab for Elimination of Existing Expansion Joints on
1862 Steel Girder Bridges, Report BO-01-01, Ministry of Transportation Ontario.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 57

FRC Canadian Code
1863 Lam, C., Lai, D., Au, J., Lim, L., Young, W., Tharmabala, B. 2008. Development of Concrete Link Slabs to
1864 Eliminate Bridge Expansion Joints Over Piers, Transportation Association of Canada.
1865 Laranjeira, F., Grünewald, S., Walraven, J., Blom, C., Molins, C., and Aguado, A. 2011. Characterization
1866 of the orientation profile of steel fiber reinforced concrete. Materials and Structures, V. 44, No. 6, pp.
1867 1093-1111.
1868 Li, V., Lepech, M., Li, M. 2005. Final Report on Field Demonstration of Durable Link Slabs for Jointless
1869 Bridge Decks Based on Strain-Hardening Cementitious Composites, Department of Civil and
1870 Environmental Engineering, University of Michigan, U.S.A..
1871 Lopez, J.A., Serna, P., Navarro-Gregori, J., Camacho,E, 2015. An inverse analysis method based on
1872 deflection to curvature transformation to determine the tensile properties of UHPFRC, Materials and
1873 Structures, Vol. 48, No. 11, pp. 3703-3718.
1874 Lopez, J.A., Serna, P., Navarro-Gregori, J., Coll, H., 2016, A simplified five-point inverse analysis method
1875 to determine the tensile properties of UHPFRC from unnotched four-point bending tests, Composites Part
1876 B: Engineering, Vol. 91, pp. 189-204
1877 Marleau, B., Massicotte, B. and Charron, J,-P. 2018. Comportement à la fatigue de joints en béton fibré à
1878 ultra-hautes performances entre dalles préfabriquées de ponts. Report SR18-02, Group for Research in
1879 Structural Engineering, Polytechnique Montreal, Canada.
1880 Massicotte, B., Bélanger, A. and Moffatt, K. 2000. Analysis and design of SFRC bridge decks. Proceeding
1881 of the Fifth RILEM Symposium of Fibre-Reinforced Concrete, Lyon, France, September 13-15 2000, pp.
1882 263-272.
1883 Massicotte, B., Faggio, L., Cordoni, N., Nour, A. and Conciatori, D. 2016. Design and construction of
1884 SFRC bridge decks: Building on past experiences and recent developments. Fibre Reinforced Concrete:
1885 from Design to Structural Applications - FRC 2014: ACI-fib International Workshop, Editors: B.
1886 Massicotte, J.-P. Charron, G. Plizzari, B. Mobasher, FIB Bulletin 79 – ACI SP-310, 419-434.
1887 Massicotte, B., Gascon, M. Tremblay, V. and Verger-Leboeuf, S. 2017. Utilisation des dalles pleines
1888 préfabriquées en BRF pour la construction et la réparation d’ouvrages d’art. Report SR16-02. Group for
1889 Research in Structural Engineering, Polytechnique Montréal.
1890 de Montaignac, R., Massicotte, B. and Charron, J.-P. 2012a. Design of SFRC structural elements: flexural
1891 behaviour prediction. Materials and Structures, 45, 623-636.
1892 de Montaignac, R., Massicotte, B., Charron, J.-P. and Nour, A. 2012b. Design of SFRC structural
1893 elements: post-cracking tensile strength measurement. Materials and Structures, 45, 609-622.
1894 de Montaignac, R., Massicotte, B. and Charron, J.-P 2013. Finite element modelling of SFRC members in
1895 bending. Magazine of Concrete Research, 65 (19), 1133-1146.
1896 Parvez, A., Foster, J.A. 2015. Fatigue Behavior of Steel-Fibre-Reinforced Concrete Beams, ASCE
1897 Journal of Structural Engineering, 141(4).
1898 di Prisco, M., Colombo, M., Dozio, D. 2013. Fibre-reinforced concrete in fib model code 2010: principles,
1899 models and test validation, Structural Concrete, 14(4), pp. 342-361.
1900 Rossi, P. (1998). Les bétons de fibres métalliques. Presses de l'ENPC, Paris, France.
1901 Roux N., Andrade C., Sanjuan M. A. 1996. Experimental Study of Durability of Reactive Powder
1902 Concretes, ASCE Journal of Materials in Civil Engineering, Vol. 8, No. 1, pp 1-6.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 58

FRC Canadian Code
1903 Tazarv, M., Saiidi, S. 2013. Emulative Moment-Resistant RC Bridge Column-Footing Connection for
1904 Accelerated Bridge Construction in High Seismic Zone, Proceedings of the 7th National Seismic
1905 Conference on Bridges and Highways, Oakland, CA.
1906 Thomas, M., Green, B., O’Neal, E., Perry, V., Hayman, S., & Hossack, A., 2012. Marine Performance of
1907 UHPC at Treat Island, 3rd International Symposium on UHPC, HiPerMat2012, Kassel, Germany.
1908 Vandewalle, L., Dupont, D. 2003. Bending Test and Interpretation, Test and Design Methods for Steel
1909 Fibre Reinforced Concrete—Background and Experiences, In: Schnutgen B, Vandewalle L, eds.
1910 Proceedings of RILEM TC 162-TDF Workshop. RILEM Publications s.a.r.l.: Bagneaux, France, pp. 1-13.
1911 Verger-Leboeuf, S., Charron, J.-P., Massicotte, B. 2017. Design and behavior of UHPFRC field-cast
1912 transverse connections between precast bridge deck elements. ASCE Journal of Bridge Engineering,
1913 22(7).
1914 Voo, Y.L, Foster, S.J., and Gilbert, R.I. 2006. Shear Strength of Fiber Reinforced Reactive Powder
1915 Concrete Prestressed Girders without Stirrups, JCI, Journal of Advanced Concrete Technology, Vol. 4,
1916 No. 1, pp. 123-132.
1917 Voo Y.L., Poon W.K., Foster, S.J. 2010. Shear Strength of Steel Fiber-Reinforced Ultrahigh-Performance
1918 Concrete Beams without Stirrups, ASCE, Journal of Structural Engineering, Vol. 136, No. 11, pp. 1393-
1919 1400.
1920 Zhang, J., Stang, H. 1998. Application of stress crack width relationship in predicting the flexural behavior
1921 of fiber reinforced concrete, Journal of Cement and Concrete Research, 28(3), pp. 439-452.

For TSC 8 review and Task Force Use Only 59

FRC Canadian Code