FLEXURAL BEHAVIOUR. OF FERROCEMENT SANDWICH PLATES

Abstract

Ferrocement has wide application as precast roofing and wall panels in precast construction. Ferrocement sections are generally thin, so they have comparatively smaller strength in flexure and buckling. To counteract this deficiency, ferrocement sandwich panels may be used. In the sandwich panels, some lighter and cheaper material may be used as core material. In present investigation, thermocole is used as the core material which is very light and can improve thermal resistance of the section. The present study is restricted to the study of flexural behaviour of ferrocement sandwich plates. The variables are the thickness of core and type of shear connection between the ferrocement facing layers. The theoretical derivations for computing the central defections, first-crack load and ultimate load were made, based on available knowledge. The experimental results validated the theoretical values. Crack pattern and strain distribution across the section were also studied