The Flexural Behavior of Ferrocement Composite Hollow-Cored Sections

Abstract

This study will study the influence of several types of metal and non-metal mesh reinforcement materials on the flexural behavior of reinforced concrete hollow-cored sections as a viable alternative to traditional reinforced concrete sections. Compared with the traditional reinforced concrete part, the weight of the test part is lighter. In order to strengthen these hollow-cored sections, three types of steel mesh, Welded wire mesh, expanded steel wire mesh and tenax mesh with various layers are used. An intensive experiment plan was carried out on the test samples. Ten slabs with dimensions of 500 mm*2000 mm*120 mm were cast and tested until they failed under flexural load. Record and observe the deformation characteristics and cracking behavior of each sample during the loading process. According to the results, high ultimate load and serviceability load, crack resistance control, high ductility and strong energy absorption characteristics have been obtained. This has the chance to be a true construction benefit to developed and poor countries. The use of double-layer of expanded steel mesh as the additional reinforcement of the main steel can achieve the best performance of the reinforced concrete hollow-cored section.