Numerical Approach to Qualitative Evaluation of Fiber Orientation and Distribution for Flowable FRC

It is well known that fiber orientation and fiber distribution in FRC strongly affect mechanical behavior. In particular, fiber orientation depends on casting manner during execution. This research presents numerical results on flow analysis of flowable FRC which gives visualized fiber orientation. Three dimensional Distinct Element Method (DEM) was applied to the analysis. Mortar matrix was modeled using spheres having 5 mm in diameter, and each fiber having 30 mm in length and 0.5 mm in diameter was discretized by using 60 small spheres. Fiber orientation within a member was roughly simulated, and there was an area without any fiber at confluence part in a member. In addition, it was also presented that fibers aligned in one direction along reinforcing bars.