Experimental study on mechanical performance of reinforced gypsum beams

Xun Chong, Zeen Wang, Qing Jiang, Wangcheng Zhu, Weidong Zhang, Chao Yin, Chuansheng Ye

Abstract: To examine the mechanical performance of reinforced gypsum (RG) beams and the effects of the tensile and compressive longitudinal reinforcement ratio, static loading tests were conducted on seven singly RG beams and five doubly RG beams. The behavior and ultimate failure mode of the specimens were presented. Their strength, stiffness, load-deflection curves, and deformation capacities were analyzed. Subsequently, the maximum crack width and deflection under the serviceability limit state were assessed. The test results showed that most RG beam specimens experienced flexural failure, while some exhibited a combination of shear and flexural failure. The flexural failure mechanisms and shear damage modes of gypsum beams are close to those of reinforced concrete beams. The RG beam generally coincides with the plane section assumption. Additionally, the maximum crack width and deflection of each specimen under the serviceability limit state is below the specified limits, indicating that the RG beams can satisfy the requirements under the serviceability limit state. Based on the test results, the applicability of the maximum crack width calculation formula in GB50010–2010 for the RG beam was assessed, and a revised formula with higher accuracy was proposed.

External IDs:doi:10.1016/j.istruc.2025.109991