Structural Behavior of Composite Reinforced Concrete Members Encased by Continuous Fiber-Mesh Reinforced Mortar Permanent Forms

Abstract

While ductile behavior of a reinforced concrete member can be given by flexural longitudinal steel bars, high strength continuous fibers can contribute as shear and confining reinforcement, which can provide excellent durability as well. Composite R/C members encased by fiber-mesh-mortar tubes seem to be therefore one of the most effective systems. In this research, the following aspects of the system were investigated by experimental studies: (a) Tensile behavior of fiber-mesh-mortar plate--Tensile properties of the fiber-mesh-mortar plates were investigated. The test results showed tension stiffening effect which reduced crack spacing. (b) Compressive capacities of concrete columns with fiber-mesh-mortar tubes--Uniaxial compressive tests of concrete columns cast in fiber-mesh-mortar permanent forms were conducted. Improvements in strength and ductility were obtained. The confining effect was governed by fiber type, mesh directions and number of mesh layers. (c) Shear and flexural behavior of composite R/C beams encased by fiber-mesh-mortar tube--Composite R/C beams fully encased by fiber-mesh-mortar tubes were tested. The fiber-mesh-mortar tube reduces surface crack spacing on the lateral sides of the beams and improved shear/flexural capacities.