Probabilistic analysis of first-crack strength of normal and lightweight ferrocement in axial tension

Abstract

First-crack strength is an important design consideration for ferrocement elements such as water tanks and storage bins. Also, for ensuring durability against ingress of harmful chemicals first-crack strength can be an important design criterion. From the review of relevant literature it is noted that the literature on the topic of this paper is scanty. Hence, a probabilistic analysis of cracking stress of normal and lightweight ferrocement in axial tension is carried out using Monte Carlo simulation technique. In simulation, basic variables are treated as random and the deterministic equations proposed by Desayi and Reddy are used. By comparing the characteristic cracking stress with the experimental minimum values, design equations are proposed for normal and lightweight ferrocement elements.