Title: Stress Distribution, crack Patterns, and Failure Mechanisms of Reinforced Concrete Members

Author(s): Bengt B. Broms

Publication: Journal Proceedings

Volume: 61

Issue: 12

Appears on pages(s): 1535-1558

Keywords:

DOI: 10.14359/7838

Date: 12/1/1964

Abstract:
The flexural cracks which form in reinforced concrete beams cause a stress redistribution which results in secondary shear and normal stresses. It is possible to predict this stress redistribution by a simple method based on equilibrium requirements. High secondary shear stresses, which probably contribute to the development of diagonal tension cracks, were calculated to act close to the neutral axis. Also, secondary transverse tensile stresses were calculated within the compression zone and at the level of the reinforcement. It is hypothesized that the horizontal cracks which result from these lateral tensile stresses affect the failure mechanisms of these members.