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Abstract
Headed reinforcing bars have been used in concrete construction in the past. Previous research has been conducted on the use of headed reinforcing bars as longitudinal bars in concrete applications. This experiment researches the use of splicing headed reinforcing bars in masonry construction. It is felt that a shorter splice length may be used to get the same capacity, or even more capacity, than code minimum splice length requirements for deformed bars. Tests were performed on nine specimens made with 8-inch units and three specimens made with 12-inch units to determine the effects of splice length and clear cover of headed reinforcement in masonry. Several limit states for headed reinforcement were reviewed and a few of them were analyzed. The limit states analyzed included: development, side blowout, and compression strut failure. A review of both variables [splice length and clear cover] for each limit state was provided. The limited number of specimens did not allow for additional variables to be tested. This experiment showed that splicing headed reinforcement in masonry warrants further review.