Discussion on the paper "The influence of the parameter φ/ρeff on crack width"

The 'classical' model for the estimation of crack widths and the ratio φ/ρ eff and influence of bond characteristics of reinforced concrete elements are discussed. The result from tests with shallow beams reinforced with different types of 12mm steel, made up of same batch of concrete delivered in ready-mix batch showed that crack widths are significantly reduced when the relative rib area increases upto f R=0.1. A possible reduction of the crack width of about 30% was seen when the relative rib area was increased from 0.056 to 0.1, which states that bond characteristics of reinforcement influences cracking.