A Model for the Calculation of Shear Crack Widths for Beams Constructed using High Strength Steel Stirrups (Sep 2025)

As steel strength increases, understanding serviceability behaviour becomes more important.

This research develops a model to predict shear crack widths in reinforced concrete beams using high strength steel stirrups. Existing design approaches do not fully account for this behaviour, which can limit the adoption of higher strength materials.

The findings support the safe and effective use of 600 MPa steel in shear applications, enabling improved material efficiency, reduced congestion and lower embodied carbon.