Structural Performance of Eccentric Ferrocement Reinforced Concrete Columns

This research proposed a method for producing reinforced composite concrete columns, reinforced with different types of steel wire meshes. The experimental program included casting and testing of nine square columns with dimensions of 200 mm × 200 mm × 1500 mm under eccentric compression load, with an eccentricity equaling 25 mm from the column center in x direction. The experimental program specimens comprised of four designation series to make comparative study between conventionally reinforced concrete columns. Concrete columns reinforced with steel bars and stirrups as control specimen and other groups were expanded steel mesh and welded steel mesh but the fourth group used modified and galvanized steel wire meshes of expanded and welded type. The main variables were type of reinforcing materials, number of layers and volume fraction of reinforcement. The main objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of employing the new materials in reinforcing the composite concrete columns in enhancing the confinement of concrete column and resistance for eccentric loads. Results indicated that this methodology of concrete columns reinforcement can be developed in high strength, crack resistance, high ductility and energy absorption properties. Moreover, Non-linear finite element analysis (NLFEA) was carried out to simulate the behaviour of the reinforced concrete columns under eccentric loads. The analytical model was agreed with experimental results employing ANSYS-14.5 Software.