Shear behavior of full-scale high volume fly ash-self consolidating concrete (HVFA-SCC) beams

An experimental test was carried out to investigate the shear behavior of full-scale beams constructed with high volume fly ash self-consolidating concrete (HVFA-SCC). HVFA-SCC is a new concrete grade of HVFA concrete with the rheology of self-consolidating concrete that satisfies the quality of construction work, environment aspects, and concrete sustainability. Mixes with different cement replacement levels of fly ash and hydrated lime [50%, 60%, and 70% (by weight)] were used. Twelve full-scale reinforced concrete beams were cast and tested using a four-point load test setup. This study focused on observing the effect of factors such as cement replacement level, longitudinal reinforcement ratio, and shear reinforcement ratio on the beam shear behavior. All beams were 4000 mm (13 ft) in length, 457 mm (18 in.) in thickness, and 305 mm (12 in.) in width. Rheological and mechanical properties of the mixes were monitored. During testing, cracking and ultimate shear, deflection, crack pattern, and mode of failure were recorded. Furthermore, test results were compared to conventional concrete study, finite element modeling, and database of conventional concrete and self-consolidating concrete.