Structural performance of ambient‐cured reinforced geopolymer concrete beams with steel fibres

Abstract

AbstractIn the present investigation, the structural behavior of reinforced geopolymer concrete (RGPC) beams containing steel fiber has been studied. Four‐point flexural loading condition was applied in this experimental study; for testing the RGPC beams. The deflections of the RGPC were gauged at the mid‐span of the specimens. The crack patterns and failure mode of RGPC beam specimens were measured during the testing process. From these measurements, it has been observed that the steel fibers control cracking due to plastic and drying shrinkages. The length and width of cracks generally improved with the increment of steel fiber content. The findings also indicate that the flexural strength and elastic modulus of RGPC are remarkably enhanced due to the incorporation of steel fibers. Furthermore, the failure mode of RGPC is almost similar to the failure mode of conventional concrete. However, the RGPC performed better than the conventional concrete in terms of flexural strength and other mechanical properties. It has also been noticed that the increase of a/d ratio results in shifting the flexural failure mode in the mid‐span regions towards the support points. The experimental results have been compared with the relevant published literature as well as with the different standard codes.