Full-Range Behavior of High-Strength Concrete Flexural Members: Comparison of Ductility Parameters of High and Normal-Strength Concrete Members

Abstract

High-strength concrete (f c ' > 50 MPa) is a far more brittle material than normal-strength concrete. As a result, doubts have been expressed as to the ductility inherent in members made of high-strength concrete. This paper details tests on flexural members made with high-strength concrete with a view of determining three key ductility parameters: hinge lengths, softening slopes, and hinge rotation capacities. These key parameters are then compared with similar parameters for normal-strength concrete, and the implications of designing with high-strength concrete are discussed. The paper concludes that high-strength concrete members exhibit qualitatively similar trends in ductility when compared with normal-strength concrete, and that, despite high-strength concrete being a more brittle material, flexural members made with high-strength concrete exhibit greater ductility.