Abstract:

A sandwich panel consists of two thin skin layers of ferrocement layers; separated by a thick layer of polystyrene core. This type is considered a light weight building materials section. Effect of silica fume on concrete properties was investigated to determine the optimum percentage of silica fume as cement replacement. Twelve composite slabs 120cm*120cm and 14cm thick were cast. Light weight composite slabs were subjected to central load. The use of metal mesh was proposed as a viable alternative to ordinary steel bars in reinforcing ferrocement plates. Additional mild steel bars were used with steel mesh to enhance the mechanical behavior of the composite slab. Using lightweight materials lead to decrease the weight of structural member's and consequently decrease the overall dead load of the building. The study included comparisons between flexural strength, crack pattern, first crack load, and deflection under different stages of loading of the tested sandwich panels.

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