Experimental and theoretical behaviour of large scale loaded steel mesh reinforced concrete Ground-Supported slabs

Abstract

Experimental and theoretical investigations were carried out to study the structural behaviour of loaded steel mesh reinforced concrete ground-supported 6.0 m × 6.0 m by 150 mm thick slabs. The aim of the study was to benchmark scientific theory with practice. Concentrated loading tests were carried out at the slab centre; at 300 mm, and 150 mm from both the edges and the corners of the slabs. Finite element (FE) numerical modelling results and predicted design values using technical guidance and codes were determined. Nonlinear behaviour under load was captured by the FE modelling. All of the results were evaluated and compared. The experimental tests included the centre and 300 mm edge loading. Other loading positions were evaluated numerically and compared with design guidance. Experimentally for centre loading, failure was predominantly in punching shear at a load of 417 kN. For the 300 mm edge loading, circumferential and radial cracks led to bending and a punching shear failure at a peak value of 369 kN. A notable difference was evident between the experimental and values obtained using the technical guidance. The experimental values were 51.0% higher for the central loading position and 53.2% higher for the 300 mm edge loading position.