Edge-clamped two-way slabs containing low-ductility steel

Abstract

This paper describes a series of full range load tests on two-way, edge-clamped reinforced concrete slab panels containing either Class L WWF or Class N deformed bars. Five rectangular slab panels were tested each with two adjacent fully restrained edges and two free edges. A point support was included under the corner of each panel at the intersection of the two free edges. Each slab specimen was loaded by four transverse loads applied symmetrically in the mid-panel region by a deformation-controlled actuator in a stiff testing frame. The continuous edge supports were provided by clamping two adjacent edges in a carefully designed and constructed testing frame. The slabs were instrumented with load cells to measure applied forces and reactions, strain gauges to measure strain in the steel reinforcement and on the concrete surfaces, linear variable displacement transducers and lasers to measure deflections at all stages of loading. The results of the tests are presented and evaluated, with particular emphasis on the strength, ductility and failure mode of the slabs.