EFFECT OF FERROCEMENT JACKETING ON THE FLEXURAL BEHAVIOUR OF BEAM WITH CORRODED REINFORCEMENT

The deterioration of reinforced concrete (RC) beams due to corrosion of internal steel reinforcement poses a significant challenge to structural durability and safety. This study investigates the effectiveness of ferrocement jacketing as a retrofitting technique to enhance the flexural behavior of RC beams affected by corrosion. Ferrocement, a composite material comprising fine wire mesh embedded in a mortar matrix, offers considerable benefits including high tensile strength, crack resistance, and cost efficiency, making it a viable alternative to traditional strengthening methods. The research explores key parameters such as load-carrying capacity, crack propagation, deflection behavior, and failure modes of ferrocement-jacketed beams compared to unjacketed control specimens. Special emphasis is placed on the interaction between the original corroded reinforcement and the ferrocement layer, examining the bond performance and the extent to which the jacket contributes to improved structural performance. The study also evaluates the long-term durability of the jacketed beams under varying environmental conditions to assess resistance to corrosion and mechanical degradation. Findings from this investigation are expected to contribute significantly to the knowledge base of retrofitting techniques, offering practical insights for structural engineers in selecting appropriate rehabilitation strategies for aging or deteriorated RC structures. Ultimately, this work supports the broader adoption of ferrocement jacketing for effective and economical strengthening of reinforced concrete beams in corrosion-prone environments.