Experimental investigation on the applicability of geogrid: A comparison between conventional and hybrid-reinforced irregular reinforced concrete members

Since geogrid is a new and under-researched material in terms of reinforced concrete members, this study focuses on the experimental validation of the feasibility of this material to be used instead of steel rebars. Despite the apparent mechanical disadvantages of geogrid, higher durability and special applicability in harsh environments are significant advantages of the material. A total of 18 deep beams as nine unique models with various web-openings have been tested in this study. Each one of the conjugate test samples was designed conventionally by steel reinforcements, while the other one was designed by hybridizing geogrid and steel as the web reinforcement. Comparison of the structural performance and applicability of geogrid, which is used as the web reinforcement instead of steel, in terms of the flexural and mostly the shear strength of concrete members, is the main goal of the research. Because of the complexity depending on their geometrical irregularities, deep beams with web-openings were experimentally investigated for the validation of the feasible use of geogrid material. Experimental comparison of the deep beams, which have been subjected to flexural testing, revealed that geogrid has a remarkable contribution to the structural performance of reinforced concrete members. Alongside the advantage of geogrid’s structural flexibility and especially the bonding performance, higher ductility and stiffness levels of hybrid beams highlight the eligibility of geogrid to be used instead of steel rebars in reinforced concrete structures. © The Author(s) 2018.