Which element resists diagonal tension in beams induced by shear stress?

Stirrups play a crucial role in resisting diagonal tension in beams that is caused by shear stress. This tension is often referred to as diagonal shear tension. Stirrups, which are typically made of steel and shaped like a closed loop or U, are placed at regular intervals across the span of a beam. Their primary purpose is to provide additional support and confinement to the concrete, especially in areas where shear forces are concentrated.

When a beam is subjected to vertical loads, shear forces develop, creating potential diagonal cracks due to the tension. Stirrups help mitigate this issue by holding the concrete together and resisting these diagonal tension forces. By anchoring and containing the material, stirrups effectively prevent the propagation of cracks and enhance the overall structural integrity of the beam.

Bracing and struts are more commonly associated with lateral support and stabilization rather than directly addressing diagonal tension within the span of a beam. Reinforcement plates, on the other hand, are used to strengthen connections or add stiffness but do not specifically target shear stress resistance in beams. Therefore, stirrups are the correct choice for resisting diagonal tension induced by shear stress.