Experimental investigation on strain distribution in reinforcement of RC specimens

Abstract

A new analytical approach has recently been proposed by the authors for developing mean crack spacing models of RC ties. The approach is based on combining the mean strain and stress-transfer approaches through the equality of mean strains. A simplified reinforcement strain distribution profile is assumed to describe the variation of strains in a RC tie block between two consecutive cracks. The present study is dedicated to the experimental investigation of strains in the reinforcement of such a RC block. Tests were carried out on 100x100mm section concrete prisms reinforced with single 16 and 12 mm ribbed bars. Based on previous research by the authors of RC ties, the lengths of the prisms were taken as 150 and 185mm, respectively, corresponding to the mean crack spacing values. The paper reports the experimental strain profiles of the RC ties and discusses the findings in regards to the crack spacing prediction method.