LARGE-SCALE DIRECT TENSION TEST OF CONCRETE

A pilot large scale direct tension test is reported. Two independently controlled actuators were used to ensure a homogeneous tensile field and to avoid secondary flexural stresses. Fracture energy and tensile strength are reported. From this pilot test, it was determined that th e fracture energy obtained from large scale direct tension tests is si gnificantly higher than the one obtained in wedge splitting tests on l aboratory sized specimens.