Analysis of Deflection and Cracking of Concrete Beams with Non-Metallic Reinforcement

The composite bars have become a useful substitute for conventional reinforcement in civil engineering structures for which load capacity and resistance to influences of environmental factors' are required. Considering the requirements of responsible design of engineering structures with particular emphasis on durability, the use of non-metallic reinforcement in reinforced structural elements allows to reduce the costs related to erection of buildings, as well as the costs of building maintenance and renovations. The behaviour of model beams made of concrete reinforced with composite bars (fiber reinforced polymer bars) in three-point bending test was analyzed. The strength parameters of composite bars were tested. The bending capacity, deformation of concrete, and beam deflection were determined. Crack propagation in the model beams under load was analyzed using the Aramis 5M optical measuring system. Due to the strength characteristics of the composite reinforcing bars, the beams exhibited significant tensile strains, which resulted in the development of cracks of considerable width.