Reply to arXiv:1810.11506: Size Effect According to the Critical Shear Crack Theory (CSCT) for Reinforced Concrete Beams and Slabs

TL;DR

This paper defends the Critical Shear Crack Theory (CSCT) against criticisms, reaffirming its validity for predicting size effects in reinforced concrete beams and slabs by referencing prior supporting research.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive rebuttal to criticisms of CSCT, consolidating previous evidence to reinforce the theory's credibility in structural engineering.

Findings

CSCT effectively predicts size effects in reinforced concrete.

Previous research supports the validity of CSCT hypotheses.

The critique in arXiv:1810.11506 is addressed and countered.

Abstract

This document is a reply to arXiv:1810.11506. In that document, D\"onmez and Ba\v{z}ant raise a number of criticism on the hypotheses Critical Shear Crack Theory (CSCT). The aspects criticized have however been largely discussed in previous works of the CSCT, proving the validity of the theory. This document compiles such previous knowledge as a reply to the authors of the report.