A study of thin-walled ferrocement elements for prefabricated housing

摘要

An experimental investigation was conducted to study the ultimate load behaviour of ferrocement thin-walled channel beams representing the basic unit for a proposed prefabricated housing system with the aim of developing simple design charts for strength. The study comprises testing under pure bending of a total of six panels, three of these panels were tested in an upright position and three in inverted position. The main parameter considered was the volume fraction of reinforcement. The results of these tests are presented and discussed in this paper. Based on experimental observation of the behaviour at ultimate load and a comparison with the general method of analysis by equilibrium and strain compatibility for a wide range of geometric and material parameters, the familiar 'rigidplastic' concept has been justified for ultimate strength analysis of ferrocement structural sections. The method is suitable for the development of design charts. Typical charts are presented for rapid assessment of flexural strength or to expedite the design process.