Abstract
National design codes and specifications have approached minimum thickness provisions for one- and two-way slabs from different perspectives. These provisions are attractive as a simple means of deflection control. However, concerns have been raised about the range of the validity of current ACI Code provisions. The ACI Code provisions are based on member depth, while other codes are based on reinforcement effective depth. This paper compares four different codes, including the ACI Code, and an equation proposed by the authors to incorporate the main design variables affecting deflection control. The results indicate that ACI 318 provisions need to be revised to cover the range of design parameters that are relevant in current practice. A recommendation is made to adopt the proposed equation, which is relatively easy to apply and covers a wide range of design conditions. The current minimum thickness values could be retained for when the proposed equation produces a lower thickness value than the current provisions.
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