A simplified calculation model for maximum diagonal crack width of UHPC-NC composite beams

The study on precast UHPC-NC composite beams investigated the effects of shear span ratio, stirrup reinforcement ratio, and NC strength on cracking shear force and diagonal crack width. Tests on eight UHPC-NC beams and one RC beam revealed that increasing the shear span ratio reduced the cracking shear force and widened diagonal cracks. U-shaped UHPC formwork enhanced cracking shear force and delayed crack development. While stirrup ratio had minimal impact on cracking force, it helped delay crack growth. A proposed model accurately estimated cracking shear force and maximum diagonal crack width, offering valuable insights for engineering applications.