Effect of size on flexural behavior of high-strength concrete beams

In 1966, after extensive tests, Corley reported that the effect of size on the rotational capacity of plastic hinges was not significant. In 1988, Hillerborg used a fracture mechanics approach and Corley's beam test data to conclude that the rotational capacity of the hinging section of a reinforced concrete beam is inversely proportional to the effective depth of the member. To investigate the effect of size on the behavior offlexural members subjected to pure bending, 12 simply supported, under-reinforced, high-strength concrete beams were tested under two-point loading. Three different effective depths and two different concrete strengths were considered. Measured rotations, extreme compression fiber strains, and flexural strengths indicated that there was no apparent effect of size on deformation capacity or flexural strength.