Experimental Investigations on Flexural Behavior of Partially Replaced LWAC Beams

Abstract

In this study evaluation of the structural performance and characteristics of normal concrete (NC) and light weight aggregate concrete (LWAC) was done through a series of experimental tests. And bond strength, interfacial shear strength and flexural behaviour are essential for assessing the suitability of LWAC in construction. The bond strength between concrete and steel reinforcement is determined using pull-out tests. interfacial shear strength at the concrete-to-concrete interface is evaluated using push-off tests, where L-shaped specimens are tested for vertical load failure. The flexural behaviour of reinforced concrete control beams made of fully NC and NC-LWAC double layered beams were examined through tests on beams through four-point loading, focusing on pure flexural failure. Various flexural parameters, such as load at first crack, yield load, ultimate load and deflection are measured and analysed. The results compare the performance of fully NC beams with NC-LWAC beams, evaluating load versus deflection curves, cracking behaviour, stiffness degradation, ductility indices, energy absorption, and moment capacities. The study also documents failure patterns to understand crack propagation and overall behaviour under loading, providing insights into the advantages and limitations of NC and LWAC in structural applications.