Synergetic effect of steel fibers and shear-reinforcing bars on the shear-resistance mechanisms of RC linear members

Reinforced concrete with steel fibers (RSF) is one type of a hybrid structure that can improve the shear-load capacity of conventional reinforced concrete (RC) structures. This paper studies the synergetic effect of shear-reinforcing bars and steel fibers on the shear-resistance of RSF beams and columns, based on the shape and the distribution of diagonal cracks. A series of bending and lateral cyclic-loading tests were conducted to consider the effect of loading and support conditions on the shear-resistance mechanism. As a result, the optimum ratio of steel fibers to shear-reinforcing bars for the shear-load capacity is determined for the RSF linear members. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.