BOND OF EPOXY-COATED REINFORCEMENT: COVER, CASTING POSITION, SLUMP, AND CONSOLIDATION

The effects of concrete cover, casting position, concrete slump, and degree of consolidation on the reduction in bond strength between reinforcing bars and concrete caused by epoxy coating are described. Tests include beam-end specimens containing No. 5, No. 6, No. 8, and No. 11 bars. Bottom-cast and top-cast bars with 1, 2, or 3 bar diameters of cover are evaluated. Concrete slump ranges from 2 1/4 to 8 inches. Some specimens containing high slump concrete are not vibrated. The results of the study are used to develop improved development length modification factors for epoxy-coated bars. The details of the study are described, and the results are presented and discussed.