Discussion on Session III

DR SWAMY

Paper 10 is concerned primarily with fibre

cement composites, in which the matrix could be

cement paste, mortar or concrete. Apart from

considerations of strength and stiffness, the

significant contribution of the fibres in the

composites is the improvement in the degree of

crack control. Unlike the plain matrix, where

crack propagation is unstable and uncontrolled,

the presence of fibres imparts a very slow and

controlled crack growth. It is therefore impor

tant to know something about the toughness and

ductility of these composites, not only from a

material point of view but also for use in

design. Such crack analyses will also be useful