Computational failure analysis of reinforced concrete plate assemblages

Mondher Labbane, Purdue University

Abstract

A finite element analysis of two and three dimensional reinforced concrete plate structures is presented. A critical investigation of several commonly used loading functions and failure criteria is initially conducted. Based on the results of the investigation, a relatively simple plastic-fracture concrete model is proposed. The reinforcement is modeled as smeared layers into the multilayered plate finite element. For the numerical calculations, a three dimensional triangular plate element with a co-rotational formulation and explicit time integration is used. The program is coded for large displacements and transient responses. Static solutions are obtained by considering a slow ramp loading history and a dynamic relaxation procedure. In addition to its relatively small core storage, the procedure has been found to yield stable results without numerical difficulties. Several numerical studies of two dimensional reinforced concrete slabs, and three dimensional reinforced concrete plate structures, including, folded plates, box girders and cylindrical shells, are conducted. The accuracy of the numerical results are verified by comparisons to the available experimental data. The comparisons include the load-deflection histories at different locations, the growth of micro-cracks regions, the initiation of fracture cracks and their propagation. Good agreement with the experimental data has been generally obtained. Since the program is coded for transient responses, the response of impulsively loaded reinforced concrete slabs is also studied. Good qualitative agreement with the experimental data is obtained; however, at high loading rates, the strain-rate properties of concrete need to be included for more accurate quantitative predictions. Including the strain-rate properties of the reinforcing steel has only a minor effect on the numerical predictions for the considered cases.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Ting, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Civil engineering

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