Numerical modelling of inelastic behavior of reinforced concrete elements considering cracks and bond

Abstract

During the last 25 years, the use of the finite element method in structural engineering area has provided a powerful tool for engineers that has very wide applicability. This method also can be applicable to reinforced concrete members and structures. To be able to use finite element method for the concrete, the behavior of concrete must be modelled numerically, considering concrete cracking, tension stiffening, multiaxial material characteristics, interface behavior, bond properties and other effects. In this study, interface behavior of concrete is studied, and a finite element program is developed. Aggregate interlock mechanism that is the concrete to concrete interface shear transfer mechanism, is studied using Gambarova Karakoç formulations. A new concept, shear retention factor which is supposed to take account of the reduction of the shear stiffness of concrete elements by cracking, is analyzed and by making use of the Karakoç formulations, an original formulation is proposed. The results of the analysis performed in this study are compared with the experimental results obtained by various researchers.