Research Article
Reliability-Based Evaluation of Hollow Reinforced Concrete Beams with Variable Void Positions
Isah Aminu,
John Wasiu,
Ibrahim Abdulrazaq Olayinka*
,
Haruna Daud Gussau
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 2, December 2026
Pages:
47-53
Received:
21 April 2026
Accepted:
11 June 2026
Published:
3 July 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.ajcbm.20261002.11
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Abstract: This study presents a reliability-based evaluation of the flexural behavior of reinforced concrete (RC) beams containing voids formed using polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes positioned at varying distances along the beam length. Six beam specimens measuring 500 mm × 100 mm × 100 mm were cast and tested, with voids located between 0 mm and 200 mm from the beam ends. The experimental program followed ASTM and BS 8100 standards to determine the concrete’s physical and mechanical properties, including slump, water absorption, and flexural strength. Results showed that the beam performance was highly dependent on void positioning. Beams with voids placed 100 mm from the supports recorded the highest flexural strength of 3.10 N/mm2 at 28 days, surpassing the control beam (2.90 N/mm2). Reliability analysis, performed using the First Order Reliability Method (FORM) as recommended by the Joint Committee on Structural Safety, yielded an average reliability index (β) of 3.32, representing a 50% improvement in safety prediction accuracy compared to deterministic design. The findings confirm that strategically positioned voids can improve structural efficiency and material economy without compromising safety. Consequently, the study concludes that reliability-based design provides a robust framework for sustainable and optimized reinforced concrete beam construction.
Abstract: This study presents a reliability-based evaluation of the flexural behavior of reinforced concrete (RC) beams containing voids formed using polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes positioned at varying distances along the beam length. Six beam specimens measuring 500 mm × 100 mm × 100 mm were cast and tested, with voids located between 0 mm and 200 mm from ...
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