Title: Experimental Studies on High-Strength Concrete Deep Beams

Author(s): Stephen J. Foster and R. Ian Gilbert

Publication: Structural Journal

Volume: 95

Issue: 4

Appears on pages(s): 382-390

Keywords: deep beams; high-strength concrete; plastic truss; nonflexural members; structural design; strut and tie;

DOI: 10.14359/554

Date: 7/1/1998

Abstract:
In this study, 16 high-strength concrete deep beams were tested to destruction. Variables considered in the investigation are shear-span to depth ratio, concrete strength (50 to 120 MPa [7250 to 17,400 psi]), and the provision of secondary reinforcement. The investigation examines deep beam behavior and compares the experimental results with the CIRIA Guide 21 design method, the ACI 3182 method, and the plastic truss model of Rogowsky and MacGregor3 using the efficiency model proposed by Warwick and Foster.4 The results of the investigation show that good load predictions can be obtained using the plastic truss model when combined with the Warwick and Foster efficiency factor. It is also concluded that the design methods given by CIRIA Guide 2 and ACI 318 are generally conservative for deep beams fabricated with high-strength concrete.