Behavior of Lightweight Coarse Aggregate RC Beams with Circular Opening

This pressent research investigates the mechanical properties of Waste Rubber Fibers Lightweight Coarse Aggregate Concrete (WRFLWAC) mixture. Also, the shear behaviors of 12 RC beams contain opening are investigated. The main study parameters are: The opening location, the waste rubber fiber ratio and the shear reinforcement. Deflection values and cracks are registered at each load step; also the cracking or service and failure loads are recorded. The existing of an opening in beams lessens the strength and shear and flexural rigidity of beams with a percentage depending on the position of opening, shear reinforcement and waste rubber fiber ratio. The position of opening influence the strength of tested beams and the most critical case noticed when the opening made near the support. The increase in waste rubber ratio is found to be significant on service (cracking) and ultimate loads of tested concrete beams. The numerical (finite element) technique is used trace the behavior with increasing opening size. It is find that the service (cracking) and ultimate loads decreased with increasing opening size. The laboratory and analytical results are obtained to be in good agreements.