Análisis comparativo técnico y económico de hormigones reforzados en diferentes proporciones de fibras de acero y polipropileno mediante ensayos de tenacidad a la fractura conforme a las especificaciones establecidas por la EFNARC, para aplicaciones en obras de Ingeniería Civil

Abstract

This project comparatively analyzes the technical and economic performance of concretes reinforced with steel and polypropylene fibers in different proportions, using fracture toughness tests under the EFNARC. The objective is to determine the viability of these mixtures in civil engineering projects, considering both their strength and energy absorption capacity, as well as the cost per cubic meter. The hypothesis is that the appropriate combination of fibers can significantly improve the mechanical behavior of concrete and prove economically competitive. The justification is based on the need to provide technical and economic guidelines that promote innovation and resource optimization in the Ecuadorian construction sector. For the development of the project, concrete mixtures with different proportions of steel and polypropylene fibers were prepared and fracture toughness tests were performed, following the guidelines of the EFNARC regulations. The equipment used allowed for the recording of load-deflection curves, while the economic analysis was carried out based on local material prices, allowing for a comparison of production costs between the proposed mixtures. The results showed differences in energy absorption capacity and toughness between the dosages evaluated. The combination of steel fibers and polypropylene was found to offer better mechanical performance compared to mixtures using a single fiber, although the cost varies depending on the proportion used. It is concluded that fiber-reinforced concrete is a viable technical alternative with potential application in local construction, provided that clear dosage criteria are defined that balance performance and cost. Keywords: Reinforced Concrete, Steel Fibers, Polypropylene Fibers, EFNARC, Technical-Economic Analysis.