Contribution of strain-hardening cementitious composites (SHCC) to shear resistance in hybrid reinforced concrete beams

Abstract

Strain Hardening Cementitious Composite (SHCC) is an innovative type of fibre-reinforced cement-based composite that has superior tensile properties. Because of this, it holds the potential to enhance the shear capacity of reinforced concrete (RC) beams, if applied properly. This paper presents the general and distinctive properties of SHCC as well as a literature review of topics related to the contribution of SHCC layers to the shear resistance of RC beams with and without shear reinforcement. Based on the analysed results, it is concluded that the main characteristics of SHCC are its microcracking behaviour, high ductility, and increased tensile strength (between 2 and 8 MPa) at large deformations. When used in structural elements, SHCC develops multiple parallel cracks compared to concentrated cracks in conventionally reinforced concrete. The biggest disadvantage of SHCC is its significant drying shrinkage. Although showing high variability, using SHCC as laminates with a thickness of 10 mm improves the shear capacity of hybrid RC beams, but debonding of interfaces in a hybrid system occurs in some cases.