Project Proposal

[shear1]

I have to do a final year structural thesis. This thesis consists of three main parts:
1. A theoretical analysis of the subject.
2. An experimental program (destructive testing)
3. Conclusions

I am looking for a subject. I am interested in composite action (any two materials), light weight construction, new materials, and alternative methods of reinforcing concrete.

Has anyone come across anything that you regarded as interesting? If so I would love some suggestions. The project has to be fairly specific e.g. torsion in timber box beams. I will be happy to share my findings or carry out research for a larger project.

 

[vmirat]

An idea I have kicked around is making a composite steel/plastic beam. You would make a rectangular box shape using sheet metal, such as 20 gage steel, then fill the void with recycled plastic. Not only would it be very light weight but it would also appeal to such agencies as the federal government who are interested in green design. The only problem is fire. If it gets hot, then the plastic melts inside the sheet metal box.

 

[jeg]

Shear 1

In some instances, We use steel fibre for reinforcing slabs rather than mesh or rebar.

Columns are an important part of many structures. They are expensive to reinforce and difficult to concrete when carrying high % of rebar. A lot of the rebar is in the form of links to prevent the main rebar bursting out of the column.

Could we replace all or part of the main bars and all of the links with fibre reinforced concrete?

Good Luck

 

[LPPE]

How about recycled glass as aggregate in concrete?

 

[dougantholz]

It may not be sexy, but I have heard of pavements using recycled tires to replace course aggregate. They say there is no reduction in strength, but much higher durability (more elastic capability).
I know that there is some research out there for using carbon fiber wrapped concrete columns - but there some companies out there that do this already.