Effect of Confinement on Curvature Ductility of Reinforced Concrete Beams

Abstract

This study explores the enhancement of curvature ductility in reinforced concrete (RC) beams through transverse confinement. Both analytical modeling and experimental testing were conducted to evaluate the performance of RC beams under varying confinement levels provided by stirrups. Analytical modeling employed the OPENSEES platform using stress-strain relations defined by Hong K N and Han S H (2005) and Saatcioglu and Razvi (1992). Six beams with different stirrup configurations were analyzed and cast. Experimental observations showed that reduced stirrup spacing and increased number of stirrup legs significantly improved the curvature ductility of beams. Among the two models, the Saatcioglu and Razvi model yielded results more consistent with experimental findings.