An analysis of fracture toughness, at third mode fracture in concretes containing fly-ash additives

This paper presents the results of fracture toughness tests of concrete with fly ash (FA), specified at the third model fracture. Concrete composites with the additives of 0%, 20% and 30% siliceous FA were analysed. Fracture toughness tests were performed on axial torsion machine MTS 809 Axial/Torsional Test System, using the cylindrical specimens with dimensions of 150/300 mm, with a circumferential notch made in the half-height of cylinders. The studies examined effect of FA additive on the parameter KIIIc. The Analysis of the results revealed that a 20% FA additive causes increase in KIIIc, while a 30% FA additive causes decrease in fracture toughness.