Behavior of Self Compacted Concrete Ferrocement Beams

Abstract

This study presents the results of an experimental investigation into the behaviour of ferrocement beams after exposure to various types of ferrocement and ferrocement layers. In the experimental programme, seven simply supported beams were tested up to failure under a four-point load. The dimensions of all specimens are 15cm×25cm×200cm. Each beam was reinforced using steel 2f12 on bottom and 2f10 on the top and therefore the stirrups were 10 f 10/m. Six beams were also strengthened with ferrocement layers and varied steel wire meshes. The test specimens are divided into three groups, and the results of each group are compared to those of the control specimen. The first group (A) used the welded wire mesh. The second group (B) used the expanded wire mesh. However, the third group (C) used woven wire mesh. The tested beams' mid-span cracks, deflection, concrete strains, and reinforcement were all measured and compared. The test beams' efficiency was evaluated in terms of energy absorption and ultimate flexure load cracking behaviour. The experimental results emphasize that high ultimate loads, better crack resistance control, high ductility, and good energy absorption properties could be achieved using the proposed ferrocement beams. The use of woven, expanded, and welded wire mesh reduced crack propagation and reduced the number and width of cracks, especially in specimens with two layers of wire mesh. Theoretical calculations were carried out in order to compare the obtained results to the theoretical ones, which were found to be in good agreement.