Analysis of Deflection and Cracking of Concrete Beams with Non-Metallic Reinforcement

Abstract

The composite bars have become a useful substitute for conventional reinforcement in civil engineering structures for which load capacity and resistance to influences of environmental factors' are required. Considering the requirements of responsible design of engineering structures with particular emphasis on durability, the use of non-metallic reinforcement in reinforced structural elements allows to reduce the costs related to erection of buildings, as well as the costs of building maintenance and renovations. The behaviour of model beams made of concrete reinforced with composite bars (fiber reinforced polymer bars) in three-point bending test was analyzed. The strength parameters of composite bars were tested. The bending capacity, deformation of concrete, and beam deflection were determined. Crack propagation in the model beams under load was analyzed using the Aramis 5M optical measuring system. Due to the strength characteristics of the composite reinforcing bars, the beams exhibited significant tensile strains, which resulted in the development of cracks of considerable width.

Comparative Performance Analysis of Small Concrete Beams Reinforced with Steel Bars and Non-Metallic Reinforcements

“…Recently, numerous studies have explored the intricate properties of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP)-reinforced concrete beams, as evidenced by a growing body of research [14][15][16][17]. Many of these investigations have focused on the behavior of concrete beams that are reinforced with a single type of fiber reinforcement, comparing their performance against that of conventional steel-reinforced concrete beams [16][17][18][19][20][21][22].…”

“…Recently, numerous studies have explored the intricate properties of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP)-reinforced concrete beams, as evidenced by a growing body of research [14][15][16][17]. Many of these investigations have focused on the behavior of concrete beams that are reinforced with a single type of fiber reinforcement, comparing their performance against that of conventional steel-reinforced concrete beams [16][17][18][19][20][21][22]. Conversely, other studies [23][24][25][26][27][28][29] have chosen to examine FRP bars in isolation, subjecting them to various conditions to elucidate their intrinsic properties without integration into concrete structures.…”

“…This phenomenon was attributed to the lower modulus of BFRP bars compared to steel bars. Furthermore, Kosior-Kazberuk et al [16] reported that concrete beams reinforced with basalt fiber polymers exhibited substantially higher deformations, averaging three to four times more than steel-reinforced concrete beams. Notably, during the initial loading phase, BFRP-reinforced concrete beams demonstrated a 40% increase in deflection relative to reference reinforced concrete (RC) beams, with this disparity increasing as the load intensified.…”