ABSTRACT

The research work involved the testing of four series of RC beams subjected to reinforcement corrosion while maintaining a sustained load. The first three series of beams were subjected to the same test conditions except that the arrangement of the bottom tension reinforcement was varied. Series 1 contained two Y12 bars (226 mm2), Series 2 had a single Y16 bar (201 mm2) and Series 3 contained three Y10 bars (235 mm2). The beams in these three test series were subjected to a 4-point load of 20 kN. In the fourth test series, the tension reinforcement consisted of two Y12 bars and the beams were subjected to an increased 4-point load of 30 kN.