Title: Fracture Mechanics Size Effect and Ultimate Load of Beams Under Torsion

Author(s): Zdenek P. Bazant, Siddik Sener, and Pere C. Prat

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 118

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 171-178

Keywords: beams (supports); dimensional analysis; fracture properties; loads (forces); reinforced concrete; tests; torsion; Structural Research

DOI: 10.14359/2955

Date: 1/1/1990

Abstract:
This symposium contribution gives a preliminary report on tests of the size effect in torsional failure of plain and longitudinally reinforced beams of reduced scale, made of microconcrete. The results confirm that there is a significant size effect, such that the nominal stress at failure decreases as the beam size increases. This is found for both plain and longitudinally reinforced beams. The results are consistent with the recently proposed Bazants size effect law. However, the scatter of the results and the scope and range limitations prevent it from concluding that the applicability of this law has been proven in general.