Flexural Performance and Cracking Mechanism of Reinforced Concrete Beams with Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag and Steel Fiber

Abstract:

Reinforced concrete remains vulnerable to cracking under service loads, which threatens structural integrity and serviceability. Improving the flexural strength and crack resistance of reinforced concrete in an environmentally sustainable manner has become a critical concern in modern construction. Despite being a primary construction material, reinforced concrete remains susceptible to cracking, which can significantly compromise structural integrity. This study aims to evaluate the enhancement of flexural performance and crack control mechanisms in reinforced concrete beams through the incorporation of Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBFS) and 1% steel fiber by concrete weight. Two beam variations were tested: one without fibers and one with steel fiber, both designed with a water-cement ratio of 0,4. Flexural tests were conducted up to the yielding condition to assess load capacity, deflection, flexural stress, and crack patterns. The results showed that the beam with steel fiber exhibited a 24% higher maximum load capacity and a 17% greater deflection at yield compared to the beam without fiber. The flexural stress increased from 10,69 N/mm² to 13,31 N/mm². The load deflection curve indicated a more stable deformation response and improved load resistance up to the yield point. Moreover, the addition of steel fiber delayed crack propagation and enhanced resistance against crack development. Overall, the incorporation of steel fiber proved effective in improving strength and crack resistance in the flexural elements of reinforced concrete. These findings support the development of sustainable structural concrete for future applications.

• Periodical: Construction Technologies and Architecture (Volume 24)
• Pages: 23-31
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/p-LEi1e2
• Online since: June 2026
• Authors: Chintya Amalia Putri, Amalia Amalia*, Yanuar Setiawan
• Keywords: Crack Mechanism, Flexural Performance, Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag, Reinforced Concrete, Steel Fiber

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