CONNECTIONS IN PREFABRICATED FERROCEMENT CONSTRUCTION

Abstract

The study reported in this thesis aimed to investigate the behaviour and strength of single-hole bolted joints in ferrocement. A total of sixty-four plate specimens, which is rectangular in cross section containing a symmetrical square welded wire mesh, were prepared and tested to failure. Variables considered in the study include edge distance, bolt diameter, grade of mortar, volume fraction of reinforcement and thickness and width of the plate. Test results indicated that failure in the plate material may occur in four different modes, labelled as cleavage, shear, tension and bearing, depending on the relative proportion of various parameters. Also presented in this thesis a method to calculate the ultimate strength of such a joint. A comparison of the present test results with theoretical predictions shows good agreement.