International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET)
e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 12 Issue: 05 | May 2025
p-ISSN: 2395-0072
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Comparative Analysis of Waffle Slab Behavior Using Analytical Theories and Structural Design Approaches Alifa Mansoori 1, Smita B. Patil 2 1ME, Structural Engineering, Dept. of Civil Engineering, Datta Meghe College of Engineering, Airoli, Navi Mumbai,
India
2Associate professor, Dept. of Civil Engineering, Datta Meghe College of Engineering, Airoli, Navi Mumbai, India
---------------------------------------------------------------------***--------------------------------------------------------------------analyses of waffle slabs [4]. The application of nonlinear Abstract - This study explores the structural behavior and
analysis and parametric studies has helped understand behaviour of these slabs and their failure modes [5]. These programs have also helped optimization methods for them further. Despite these advancements there is still a limitation on accurately predicting waffle slab responses. Also, there is a knowledge gap in design variable optimization, and cost saving improvement.
analysis of waffle slabs by various approaches. Waffle slabs are well known for their high strength-to-weight ratio and material efficiency. This study investigated by analytical theories and numerical simulations using FEM. The research performs comparative analysis of deflection predictions using Kirchhoff's Plate Theory, Timoshenko's Plate Theory, and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and concludes that FEA provides better accuracy. Timoshenko's theory with shear deformation shows close results with FEA than Kirchhoff's theory, especially for thinner slabs.
Waffle slabs also known as a grid slabs are reinforced concrete slab system made by a network of ribs running in perpendicular directions [6]. These ribs create a creating a grid-like pattern, resembling like a Waffle, hence they are called as Waffle slabs. A typical rib and deck arrangement of these slabs is as shown in figure below.
The study also optimized waffle slab design parameters—rib spacing, depth, and slab thickness—according to ACI 318-14 provisions. FEA in Abaqus analyzes failure modes under ultimate loads, verifying results against experimental results and also carried out analysis in ETABS to determines the impact of design variables on structural performance. Major conclusions are the need for FEA methods for accurate deflection prediction, the efficiency of automated optimization in minimizing material costs. The results the offer real-world advice for engineers and highlighting the incorporation of computational techniques to optimize structural efficiency in waffle slab design. The research fills gaps in conventional analytical solutions and presents a complete framework for waffle slab design and analysis. Key Words: Waffle slabs, Structural behaviour, High strengthto-weight ratio, Material efficiency, Analytical theories, Numerical simulations, Finite Element Method (FEM), Comparative analysis
Fig.-1: A two-way waffle slab with ribs running in perpendicular direction (Olawale et al, 2020)
1.INTRODUCTION
2.INTRODUCTION
Waffle slabs have proved to be an effective structural solution for buildings with large column with longer span.[1]. They are also known for their improved load-carrying capacity and minimized material use. These slabs have a monolithic form of a thin top slab and crossing ribs in two perpendicular directions [2]. These are extensively used in commercial as well as industrial buildings. Waffle slabs' shape reduces dead weight without compromising high structural efficiency that is why they are an ideal choice over conventional flat slabs [3]. Recent advances in structural analysis and design software, particularly finite element modelling (FEM) and design software have enabled engineers to perform thorough
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The article [6] "Two-Way Joist Concrete Slab Floor (Waffle Slab) System Analysis and Design" by StructurePoint is a complete method of designing waffle slabs based on ACI 318-14. It is centered on the Equivalent Frame Method (EFM) for two-way joist system analysis, explaining the structural response under different loading conditions. The article describes the step-by-step procedure for calculating flexural strength, shear strength, and serviceability criteria like deflection limits. By combining theoretical computations with software analysis, the research guarantees precision and adherence to design specifications. A major contribution
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