Efficiency of using discrete fibers on the shear behavior of R.C. beams

The shear failure of R.C. beams are brittle and suddenly occurs. Using of discrete glass fibers with concrete mixes enhanced the ductility and deformability of R.C. members. This study aims to understand and evaluate shear behavior of discrete glass fiber concrete beams. The experimental investigation carried out on reinforced concrete beams with discrete glass fiber mixes. The studied parameters included stirrups spacing (50, 75, and 100 mm) and weight percent of discrete glass fiber 0.0%, 0.75%, and 1.5% respectively. The elastic behavior of tested beams at flexural zone was also investigated. Experimental results indicated that the shear strength of tested beams was significantly increased as the percentage of fibers increased. The number of the cracks increased by using discrete fibers and became finer. Moreover, the crack propagation and modes of failure may be changed by using discrete fibers. Finally the discrete glass fibers increase ductility and failure loads of the tested beams.