Ferrocement—Material Behavior in Flexure

The results of the program are derived from 80 tests on specimens in the form of planks measuring 36 in. x 6 in. x 1 in. (914 mm x 152 mm x 25 mm) subjected to third point loading in flexure. Variables include the type, amount, strength, and orientation of the reinforcement and the strength and density of the mortar. Comparisons of the performance of systems reinforced with expanded metal, welded mesh, woven mesh, parallel strand wire, and standard bars show that there are major differences with respect to both absolute strength and degree of conformity to the predictions of ultimate load analysis. Moreover, the order of superiority of the different systems depends on whether the application involves uniaxial or biaxial bending. Generally, these differences are associated with factors not taken into account in the standard load analysis-the geometry, orientation, and interlayer spacing of the reinforcement.