Effect of Surface Roughness Characteristics on Structural Performance of Hollow Core Slabs

Materials (Basel). 2021 May 17;14(10):2610. doi: 10.3390/ma14102610.

Abstract

This study was conducted to evaluate the flexural performance of hollow core slabs (HCS) incorporating the effect of surface roughness. The HCSs are suitable for long span structures due to reduced self-weight. The specimens were HCS with topping concrete and the variables were cross sectional height and surface roughness. The tests were conducted on simply supported beams under four-point loads. The results showed that specimens with interface roughness applied in the lengthwise direction of members exhibited ductile flexural behavior up to peak load than those with interface roughness applied in the member width direction. Their flexural strength was also higher by 1-7% on average, indicating that they are advantageous in improving structural performance.

Keywords: flexural strength; hollow core slabs; horizontal shear strength; prestressed concrete; surface roughness.