Influence of width-to-depth and effective length-to-depth ratio on shear strength of reinforced concrete slender beams without shear reinforcement: comparative analysis

Purpose From the factors that affect shear strength of reinforced concrete (RC) beams, the study examines the effect of controversial parameters, width-to-depth (b/d) and effective length-to-depth (l eff /d) ratio on shear strength of RC slender beams. Design/methodology/approach The researchers utilized a database of 676 experimental test results from ACI-DAfStb database, Conducted regression analysis to examine relationship between b/d and l eff /d ratios and shear strength, compare and analyze sensitivity to changes in b/d and l eff /d ratios for the selected 12 shear models for RC beams. Findings Increasing b/d ratio enhanced shear strength until b/d ˜ 3, but further increases had limited impact and increasing l eff /d ratio resulted in decreased shear strength. From comparative analysis, the models provided by various design standards were found to be safe, with EC-2 and JSCE models being conservative. From considered research models, Campione and Arslan models were conservative, while Kim and White model were observed to be unsafe. Sensitivity analysis indicated ACI318-19, JSCE, CEB-FIP-90 and Arslan models were sensitive to changes in b/d and l eff /d ratios. National code models generally captured shear strength characteristics well. Certain models suggested a constant/decreasing b/d effect despite observed shear strength enhancement. Most models indicated improved shear strength with an increasing l eff /d ratio, contrary to experimental findings while TS500 and Hwang models aligned with experimental results. Research limitations/implications The study's limitations include the dependence on the available database, which may not encompass all possible experimental scenarios. Further research should aim to expand the database and investigate additional parameters that may influence shear strength in RC beams. Practical implications The findings of this study have practical implications for the design and analysis of RC beams by suggesting that the width-to-depth and length-to-depth ratios should be carefully considered to optimize shear strength. The identified models can assist engineers in selecting appropriate shear strength prediction models based on specific design scenarios. Social implications The study contributes to the advancement of knowledge in the field of reinforced concrete beam design, which has implications for the safety and reliability of structural systems. By understanding the factors influencing shear strength, engineers can design more efficient and robust structures, ensuring the safety of buildings and infrastructure. Originality/value This study provides valuable insights into the influence of the width-to-depth and effective length-to-depth ratios on shear strength in reinforced concrete beams. It contributes to the understanding of these factors and their impact on shear strength, addressing the lack of consensus among researchers. The comparative analysis of shear models and the sensitivity analyses add value by identifying the models that align better with experimental observations. The study emphasizes the need for accurate models that account for these factors and highlights the importance of further research to refine and develop improved predictive models.