REVIEW OF REINFORCED-CONCRETE WALL DESIGN FORMULAS

This paper focuses on the reinforced concrete wall design equation given in the ACI 318-89 code. It also presents a brief review of the relatively few contributions made an the strength and behavior of reinforced concrete wall panels. Studies on wall panels in one-way and two-way action have been covered. Comparisons of the code and related formulas are provided via simple design examples and graphs. Preliminary test results are presented for comparison with the ACI equation. The code fails to recognize any contribution to load capacity from restraints provided to side edges. The recognition of side restraints would result in thinner walls and conse- quently, huge savings. This is illustrated with the German code of practice, which allows the consideration of side restraints. It is becoming increasingly important, therefore, to obtain information concerning the characteristics of slender concrete walls with different types of supports and loadings.