STRENGTHENING OF RC BEAMS IN FLEXURE USING FERROCEMENT

Assessment of the effectiveness of ferrocement strengthening techniques i.e., cast in
situ Ferro-mesh layers and precast ferrocement Laminate is the aim of this experimental
investigation. To accomplish this objective, ten (10) reinforced concrete beams including one
control beam have been intentionally designed and detailed to fail in flexure. Prior to
strengthening, beams have been tested under two-point loading till service limit. Beams have been
strengthened in the flexural dominant region only and tested to failure under the same loading
arrangement. It has been concluded that strengthening through cast in situ Ferro-mesh layer is the
most efficient technique, whereas strengthening of the beams by using precast Ferrocement
Laminate B is not only easy to implement at household level, but is also promising in terms of
enhancing load carrying capacity, stiffness and ductility.