Black Sea Journal of Engineering and Science

Öz

This study investigates the flexural behavior of autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) lintels subjected to four-point bending under varying displacement-controlled loading rates. A total of five lintel specimens were tested at loading rates of 2.5, 10, 20, 30, and 40 mm/min. Key structural performance parameters, including maximum load capacity, displacement at peak load, stiffness, maximum deformation, and energy absorption capacity were evaluated based on the load–displacement curves. The results indicate that while the specimens exhibited similar failure patterns and general flexural behavior, the influence of loading rate on mechanical performance was limited. Maximum load values ranged between 14.25 kN and 16.77 kN, with no consistent trend across increasing loading rates. Similarly, stiffness and deformation capacity varied within a narrow range and did not reveal a systematic dependency on the rate of loading. Although some fluctuation was observed in energy dissipation values, no significant correlation could be established. These findings suggest that the flexural response of AAC lintels is not substantially affected by loading rate variations within the examined range. The structural behavior appears to be governed more by intrinsic material characteristics and production consistency than by the speed of loading. This insight is particularly relevant for practical applications, where AAC lintels are exposed to various loading conditions without significant loss in performance.