Structural Implications of Steel Mesh and Fiber Reinforcement in Underground Beams/ Case Study: Iraq

In the distinct geotechnical landscape of Al-Karkh, Baghdad, ensuring the structural robustness of underground reinforced concrete beams is imperative. This work delves into the potential advantages of integrating steel fibers and steel meshes into these beams using three types of concrete: Normal Strength Concrete, Sulphate Resistance Concrete, and Reactive Powder Concrete. Instead, it employs Type V Portland cement, known for its sulfate resistance. This study analyzes their load-carrying capacity and deflection behavior. Initial outcomes suggest that beams reinforced with Steel Fiber and Steel Mesh exhibit enhanced load-bearing capacity, reduced deflection, and improved resilience to environmental stressors. The integration of both Steel Fiber and Steel Mesh will increase the ultimate load of Normal Strength Concrete, Sulphate Resistance Concrete, and Reactive Powder Concrete by 55%, 69%, and 119% respectively. Significantly, the presence of steel meshes was linked to augmented beam strength. This work underscores the potential structural benefits of Steel Fiber and Steel Mesh. In addition, using Portland cement Type V in Reactive Powder Concrete is possible, emphasizing the applicability in urban underground frameworks, especially in contexts mirroring Al-Karkh's conditions.