Testing Bearing Capacity of Precast Hollow Core Slabs at Load Bearing Wall – Slab Joint

Precast concrete is used in many types of structures including those serving commercial, multi-unit residential, and industrial uses. Hollow core prestressed slabs (or planks) are one type of precast concrete that is used primarily for flooring systems. These planks have advantages of being able to span long distances while being relatively thin and light when compared with cast in place concrete solutions while being economically advantageous to manufactures and builders due to their ease of production. However, these planks have limitations in certain areas including susceptibility to crushing due to concentrated loads, limited ability to withstand loads outside of their primary direction of strength, and limited connectivity in the plane of the slabs. This project will work to determine bearing capacity of these slabs. Results will benefit the partner organization by providing guidance towards best practices specific to their product and the industry through widespread publication of results.

Faculty Supervisor:

Alan Lloyd

Student:

Partner:

Strescon Limited

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Construction and infrastructure

University:

University of New Brunswick

Program: