Title: Historical Perspective on the Evolution of Two-Way Slab Design

Author(s): Mahmoud Kamara, Mustafa Mahamid, and Lawrence C. Novak

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 287

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 1-10

Keywords: Slab Systems, Slab Construction Economics, Historical Overview, Analysis Methods for Slabs

DOI: 10.14359/51683857

Date: 5/1/2012

Abstract:
Reinforced concrete two-way slabs have evolved in the past century from simple solid slabs supported on beams on all sides to a multitude of complex slab systems, including irregular geometries. The demand for longer spans, advancements in forming and placing systems and the requirement for architectural esthetics, resulted in the innovation of today’s diverse two-way slab systems. When deciding on a slab system for certain project, designers now have the advantage of choosing from a wide variety of economical systems to suite the project requirements. Extensive experimental and analytical studies performed in the past hundred years and field observations of existing slabs helped researchers and engineers understand the complex behavior of two-way slab systems. With the increased understanding of the behavior of slabs, methods of analysis; design provisions and Code requirements have improved with each code cycle. This paper discusses the evolution of the different two-way spanning slab structural systems and reviews the historical development of the code provisions