Influence of Temperature on Shear Behavior of Lightweight Reinforced Concrete Beams Using Pozzolana Aggregate and Expanded Polystyrene Beads

Abstract

The innovation inherent to employing expanded polystyrene (EPS) beads lies in its transformative impact on traditional concrete practices. Through the incorporation of EPS beads in concrete mixtures, a novel approach emerges that significantly alters the material’s characteristics, and opens up new avenues for construction and design. Studying the shear behavior of RC beams made with EPS beads is essential for advancing knowledge, improving design practices, ensuring structural integrity, and promoting the effective and responsible use of innovative materials in construction. This research experimentally investigated the effect of using EPS beads and pozzolana aggregate (PA) on the shear behavior of the RC beams. A total of 27 simply supported rectangular beams were cast, using three novel distinct mix designs, and were subjected to two-point load testing until failure. These three mixes were categorized as follows: a control mix, a mix with only EPS, and a mix with EPS, along with an additive. The ultimate failure load was experimentally recorded for all specimens, and the influence of the temperature (300 °C and 600 °C) on the RC beams made with EPS was examined. The findings revealed a reduction in the concrete compressive strength and density in the beams containing EPS and EPS with superplasticizers of (21.7%, 24.9%) and (11.3%, 16.2%), respectively. Additionally, EPS played a significant role in diminishing the ultimate shear capacity of the beams, compared to the control beams, by about 19.4%. However, the addition of a superplasticizer along with the EPS helped to maintain the beam capacity, to some extent. Conversely, the beams exposed to a temperature of 300 °C exhibited an almost similar capacity to that of the control beams without heating. Nevertheless, at 600 °C, the beams displayed a noticeable decrease in the ultimate load capacity, compared to the unheated control beams.

Experimental Investigation of Mechanical Properties of Concrete Mix with Lightweight Expanded Polystyrene and Steel Fibers

“…Similarly, in another study, the utilization of EPS in concrete mix was examined. It was reported that with the addition of EPS in concrete without a superplasticizer, the density decreased by about 11.3% and 16.2% vice versa [9]. It was also reported that 5% EPS substitution as fine aggregate in concrete resulted in 16% lower compressive strength in comparison to control specimen strength.…”

Repairing of One-Way Solid Slab Exposed to Thermal Shock Using CFRP: Experimental and Analytical Study

“…Reinforced concrete (RC) is the dominant material in the construction industry due to its ease of preparation and cost-effectiveness. Its versatile shape adaptability and established attributes, such as strength, durability, and fire resistance, contribute to its widespread adoption [1][2][3][4]. In the lifespan of any reinforced concrete structure, the possibility of fire exposure exists, whether due to environmental conditions or human activities.…”