CRACK WIDTH CONTROL IN THE DESIGN OF REINFORCED CONCRETE BEAMS IN MARINE ENVIRONMENTS

Abstract

Reinforced concrete beams are extensively used in construction, and understanding crack development is essential to ensure the safety and durability of structures, particularly in marine environments. This study investigates the influence of tensile steel reinforcements on crack width in reinforced concrete beams through analytical calculations. The objective is to evaluate crack width behavior under varying amounts and configurations of reinforcement, providing recommendations for optimal load-carrying steel arrangements to limit crack width. The research methodology involves numerical simulations using ETABS and adheres to the design guidelines specified in TCVN 5574:2018, IS 456:2000, and TCVN 9346:2012. The results show that both the quantity and arrangement of tensile reinforcement significantly affect crack formation and width. Notably, the study reveals that meeting both structural strength and crack width requirements for reinforced concrete beams in marine structures is challenging. Ensuring a maximum crack width of 0.05 mm under harsh environmental conditions, such as tidal seawater exposure, poses significant difficulties. These findings offer valuable insights for engineers in designing marine concrete structures and optimizing reinforcement layouts to meet performance and durability criteria under aggressive exposure conditions.