Experimental and theoretical investigations were carried out to study the structural behaviour of loaded steel
mesh reinforced concrete ground-supported 6.0 m × 6.0 m by 150 mm thick slabs. The aim of the study was to
benchmark scientific theory with practice. Concentrated loading tests were carried out at the slab centre; at 300
mm, and 150 mm from both the edges and the corners of the slabs. Finite element (FE) numerical modelling
results and predicted design values using technical guidance and codes were determined. Nonlinear behaviour
under load was captured by the FE modelling. All of the results were evaluated and compared. The experimental
tests included the centre and 300 mm edge loading. Other loading positions were evaluated numerically and
compared with design guidance. Experimentally for centre loading, failure was predominantly in punching shear
at a load of 417 kN. For the 300 mm edge loading, circumferential and radial cracks led to bending and a
punching shear failure at a peak value of 369 kN. A notable difference was evident between the experimental and
values obtained using the technical guidance. The experimental values were 51.0% higher for the central loading
position and 53.2% higher for the 300 mm edge loading position |
