Author : H. Shehab El – Din and Heba A. Mohamed

To enhance self-compacting reinforced concrete (SCRC) columns using central reinforcement, 13 SCRC columns are tested and analyzed. The experimental program consists of a control specimen without central reinforcement and the other 12 specimens using a central steel reinforcement bar. Variables that have been taken into account are the diameter of central reinforcement bar, a bundle of four central reinforcement bars, and the tie ratio. All specimens are subjected to axial compressive loads. Deflection values are registered after each increase in loading, also modes of failure are observed and recorded by visual inspection. The experimental results are verified for some specimens by performing a nonlinear finite element analysis using a dynamic nonlinear automatic gradual (ADINA) program. The experimental and the numerical analysis showed a good agreement regarding both ultimate load and deflection. Accordingly, results suggest that the use of central reinforcement significantly increases both ultimate load carrying capacity and ductility.

Keywords: Self – Compacting; reinforced concrete columns; Central reinforcing element; ductility.

Article published in International Journal of Current  Engineering  and Technology, Vol.2,No.4 (Dec- 2012)