Development of a 3D Force-Based Beam Element for Nonlinear Analysis of RC Frame Structures Considering Flexure-Shear Coupling

Abstract eng:
The applicability of fully 2D or 3D refined finite element models of reinforced concrete structures subjected to seismic loading is questionable, especially due to their high computational burden and inherent complexities involved in developing and running the model and interpreting the results. On the other hand, beam-column type finite elements developed in the framework of distributed plasticity, where the nonlinear response of the basic system is found from the integration of the response at control sections along the element axis, seem to provide the best compromise between the desired accuracy and computational efficiency. The present work starts with a review of the main features of the state-of-the-art distributed inelasticity beam-column formulations that include shear effects and presents the grounds on which the motivation for the development of a new model settles. One of such elements is then developed with a view to the seismic assessment of reinforced concrete frame structures. The proposed model is able to deal with arbitrary loading conditions and involves the interaction of axial force, shear, bending moment and torsion. Since shear-normal stress interaction is explicitly included, the current model is deemed suitable for shear critical member analysis.

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