Structural Efficiency of Non-Prismatic Reinforced Concrete Beams: A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

The use of non-prismatic reinforced concrete beams in construction and architecture has come as an innovative evolution to shape the future of structural design in relationship to construction material efficiency, economy, and versatility. Several structural, architectural, and economic advantages can be identified in the use of non-prismatic beams compared to conventional prismatic forms. In this review, distinct types of non-prismatic beams such as tapered, hunched, and segmented are presented, and their specific advantages and areas of applications in contemporary constructions, such as bridges and retrofitted infrastructures, are discussed. Alongside, highlights of advanced novel materials as well as design developments, such as glass and carbon fiber reinforced polymers or digital design technologies, which further enhance the structural, aesthetic, and sustainability performance of the non-prismatic components, are provided. Ultimately, challenges that non-prismatic beams currently face such as optimizing loads, enhancing cost-effectiveness, and reducing potentially excessive structural depth are discussed, as well as expectations for future developments in their design and applications. The potential of non-prismatic beams in providing a more sustainable, innovating, and contemporary evolution in construction practices is recognized.