In this manuscript, structural testing was conducted on high-strength concrete slab specimens to investigate the behavior of such specimens when reinforced with a locally produced GFRP reinforcement. Subsequently, a finite element model (FEM) was constructed and validated against the experimental results. In the experimental phase, a total of eleven specimens (nine were reinforced with GFRP, while two were reinforced with conventional steel) were constructed and tested. The slabs dimensions are 700 mm × 1750 mm with variable thickness from 100 mm to 150 mm and different reinforcement ratios using different diameters. The structural behavior of the tested slabs was investigated in terms of ultimate load, ultimate deflection, load–deflection relationship, and crack pattern. Additionally, a nonlinear finite element model using the software ANSYS 2019-R1 was constructed to simulate the structural behavior of slabs reinforced with GFRP bars. The results obtained from the finite element analysis are compared with experimental results. The outcomes showed that the contribution of GFRP rebars in concrete slabs improved slab ductility and exhibited higher deflection when compared with traditional steel rebars. Good agreement between experimental and nonlinear analysis was obtained.
Using replacement for cement to assure sustainability is critical as the raw materials (limestone, sand, shale, clay and iron ore) used in making cement are depleting. The use of agriculture waste byproducts to replace cement is becoming an economic option. Rice husk ash (RHA), rice straw ash (RSA) and wheat straw ash (WSA) which have pozzolanic properties are viable alternatives. A study on RHA, RSA and WSA were conducted to determine their suitability. From the various grades of concrete studied show that up to 15% replacement of OPC with RHA, RSA and WSA have the potential to be used as partial cement replacement (PCR), having good compressive strength, performance and durability. In particular, the utilization of as PCR material as PCR can contribute to sustainable construction.
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