Parametric Study on Different Properties of Ferrocement Wall Panel

Ferrocement is a composite material made up of cement mortar and reinforcement in the form of layer of mesh. A composite material is a formed that behaves differently from reinforced concrete. There is some a similarity between the reinforced concrete and ferrocement materials, differences are there, indicating that ferrocement requires a separate study to establish its structural performances. The aim was to investigate behaviour of ferrocement panels under flexural loading and influence of the different variables on strength, deformation characteristics and on crack pattern. The variable studies were mesh number, strength and the thickness of the section. The experimental programme divided into two phase. In phase one the compressive strength of mortar was measured by making cubes. In phase two it is intended to study the strength of Ferrocement panel. For this study three types of meshes selected expanded metal mesh, galvanized woven mesh and welded mesh has same wire diameter and size of opening were different for the selection of mesh for further experimental work. The specimens were tested under single point loading. From the experimental data load and deflection curves were plotted. It was observed that panel with welded mesh gives better results compared to expanded metal mesh and galvanized woven mesh in strength and deflection.