Tests on axially restrained fibrocement slab strips

Abstract EN

Flexural strength and deformation of axially restrained ferrocement slabs and thin reinforced slabs were studied through laboratory tests on 36 slab strips.

Special steel frame was fabricated to furnish axial restraint for preventing outward movement of the strip at supports.

Test results indicate that due to existence of axial restraints, properties of cracking load, ultimate load, corresponding deflections as well as load-deflection relationship were considerably changed.

Due to existence of end restraints cracking load was increased slightly, however, as a result of produced compressive membrane action the ultimate load was increased significantly which found to be higher for thinner slabs.

Such load increase can be obtained without reduction in ductility compared with unrestrained slabs.

The role of slab thickness on ductility was found to be not important for all types of tested slabs.

Ferrocement slabs showed better load capacity compared with those slabs reinforced with steel bars but the ductility was reduced to about one half.