Analysis of flexural behavior of beams and retrofitting using wire mesh and MS plates

Abstract This research reflects the study about the flexural behavior of plain concrete beams and beams retrofitted with Mild steel(MS) plate and wire meshes. The load vs deflection behavior of the plain Concrete beams, MS plate retrofitted beams, and beams retrofitted with steel meshes is compared. Initially, the analytical analysis of the normal beam was studied with the aid of STAAD pro (v8i), and the STAAD RCDC was used for a complete reinforcement design and detailing. Later, the reinforcement provided in the form of steel bars was provided as per the output obtained in STAAD. To study the final flexural behavior, a total number of 9 beams of rectangular cross-sections were cast having uniform cross-sections. The length of the beam was kept at 1200 mm. The width and depth of the beam were kept at 150 and 200 mm respectively. Out of 9 beams, 6 beams were retrofitted, out of which 3 were retrofitted with externally bonded MS(Mild steel) plate and 3 were retrofitted wrapped wire mesh. As per the results obtained, comparing the load vs deflection models of all specimens, this research manifests that retrofitting with mild steel plates and wire mesh leads to a significant increase in the flexural capacity of the beam and due to superior strength-to-weight ratio of wire meshes the beams retrofitted with wire meshes proved more cost-effective.