Flexural performance of rapid-hardening concrete (RHC) beams with tension lap splice

Rapid-hardening concrete (RHC) is a specialized type of concrete that gains strength at an accelerated rate, allowing for faster construction and reduced project timelines. The use of RHC in structural applications, such as in beams subjected to flexural loads, has gained significant attention due to its potential for improving construction efficiency. This study focuses on the flexural performance of RHC beams with tension lap splice, which is considered a common method for joining reinforcement bars in concrete structures.

Several parameters were taken into consideration, such as concrete type, concrete cover, and reinforcement bar diameter. The loading test was performed on sixteen beams to show results of load capacities, moment–displacement response, energy absorption, and ductility. As a result, the flexural performance of RHC beams is compared to that of NC beams.

Results indicate that RHC beams require 30 Φ splice length after 3 days of casting, while NC beams require 40 Φ splice length after 28 days. The RHC beam had higher load capacities, ductility, resilience, and toughness than NC beams, by 73%, 41%, 82%, and 88%, respectively. The bar diameter and concrete cover had a significant effect on increasing loads and resilience, while toughness decreased.