The present work describes a simple model, based on concepts of Fracture Mechanics, to evaluate the diagonal tension failure load in reinforced concrete beams without stirrups. It is developed by an analytical method that identifies the variables on which the…
The present work describes a simple model, based on concepts of Fracture Mechanics, to evaluate the diagonal tension failure load in reinforced concrete beams without stirrups. It is developed by an analytical method that identifies the variables on which the diagonal traction failure depends, with special attention to bond between concrete and steel bars. The beam collapse is caused whenacrack, which is developing through the beam cross section, reaches a certain depth which we will refer to as the critical depth. This depth depends on the position of the section being studied, the external load, the beam boundary conditions and the beam geometry. The presented model can help to better understand the nature of the diagonal tension failure in reinforced concrete elements without stirrups.