Experimental results and limit load analysis by the strut-and-tie method (STM) in deep beams with notches and openings

Abstract

This article presents experimental results of eight non-aligned, non-geometrically symmetrical deep beams with notches and openings. The variables considered in the study were the presence of web reinforcement, and the geometry of the deep beams. Along with the experimental investigation, a study of strut-and-tie models (STM) representing the behavior (failure mode and maximum load) of reinforced concrete deep beams with complex geometries was performed. The experimental results showed that the ultimate load capacity of deep beams is significantly affected by the presence of reinforcement in the web. Furthermore, the study showed that the STM is conservative and tends to underestimate the results, reducing its ability to predict failure load.