الفهرس 
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Abstract
This thesis presents a new, effective, economic and convenient method by using ferrocement in deck bridges and permanent formwork.
In this method, steel welded meshes is used as a viable alternative to ordinary steel bars commonly used in reinforcing ferrocement panels. The proposed method is so simple that it dose not require neither complicated technology nor light-skilled labors. The results of both experimental and analytical investigation to examine the effectiveness of this method including the cracking patterns, deflection, and strength characteristics of the tested slabs are reported and discussed. To improve the properties of the mortar used in producing ferrocement slabs, a study was conducted to examine the effect of silica fume on the properties of mortar and to determine its optimum percentage as a cement replacement. The results of this study are also presented and discussed.
Fourteen ferrocement slab specimens were cast in one and two stages and cured for 28 days before testing. Ferrocement slabs were reinforced with steel welded mesh. All test specimens were loaded simply supported over 91.5 centimeters span till collapse with central span line load. While loading, deflection at the mid-span point was recorded by means of mechanical dial gage, the specimens were inspected for cracking at each load increment, and ultimate load was recorded.
A simple computer program was used to predict the behavior of these slabs. The experimental results were used to verify the predicted results obtained using computer program. The analytical and experimental results of ferrocement slabs demonstrated that, better cracking behavior for all slabs compared to control slab. Also it was found that the ultimate strength of the slab specimens is affected by modified volume fraction. The ductility ratio and energy absorption properties of the tested slabs were improved by this method of reinforcement. In general the experimental results proved the effectiveness of steel welded wire mesh in reinforcing ferrocement panel as permanent formwork.