Shear Behavior Analysis of Reinforced Concrete Deep Beams

Reinforced concrete deep beams are structural elements in which the shear span-to-depth ratio is sufficiently low that shear deformation and arching action dominate over flexure. Unlike conventional beams, deep beams exhibit non‐linear stress distributions and complex crack patterns governed by strut‐and‐tie action. Key factors influencing their performance include the shear span‐to‐depth ratio, longitudinal and transverse reinforcement ratios, concrete strength, presence of openings, and use of supplementary materials such as fibres. Arching mechanisms and compression struts form primary load paths, while tensile ties resist crack formation. Experimental programmes routinely examine full‐scale specimens under concentrated loads to elucidate failure modes, load‐deflection characteristics and residual capacity under extreme conditions such as fire exposure. Concurrently, advanced numerical models based on concrete damaged plasticity and calibrated damage criteria provide insight into stress redistribution, crack propagation and ultimate limits. Practical applications span transfer girders in high‐rise structures, bridge abutments, offshore platforms and building transfer floors where deep beam action permits redistribution of heavy point loads. Recent advances have focused on enhancing ductility through hybrid fibre systems, mitigating strength loss in recycled aggregate beams, and refining design approaches using strut‐and‐tie models aligned with current codes. Global significance arises from the optimisation of material usage, sustainability through recycled aggregates, and improved resilience under accidental and fire loading.

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Technical terms

Shear span-to-depth ratio: The ratio of the distance between load application and support to the overall depth of a beam; a lower ratio indicates deep beam action and arching mechanisms.

Strut-and-tie model: A simplified representation of internal force flow in discontinuity regions, modelling compression struts and tension ties to predict capacity and crack patterns.

Web openings: Deliberate voids within the beam’s web to accommodate services or reduce weight, which significantly affect shear flow and crack development.

Concrete damaged plasticity: A constitutive model describing nonlinear and inelastic behaviour of concrete under tension and compression, capturing stiffness degradation and crack formation.

Hybrid fibre reinforcement: Use of two or more fibre types (e.g. steel and polypropylene) in concrete to synergistically improve strength, toughness and crack control.

References

1. Experimental and analytical study of the residual performance of reinforced concrete deep beams with circular web openings. Results in Engineering (2025).
2. Experimental and Numerical Analysis of Steel-Polypropylene Hybrid Fibre Reinforced Concrete Deep Beams. Polymers (2023).
3. A nonlinear concrete damaged plasticity model for simulation reinforced concrete structures using ABAQUS. Fracture and Structural Integrity (2021).
4. Shear Response of Recycled Aggregates Concrete Deep Beams Containing Steel Fibers and Web Openings. Sustainability (2022).