Title:
Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis of RC Flat Plates Subjected to Non-Uniform Connection Stresses
Author(s):
Trevor Hrynyk
Publication:
Web Session
Volume:
Issue:
Appears on pages(s):
Keywords:
DOI:
Date:
4/2/2023
Abstract:
This paper presents the application of a low-cost thick-shell nonlinear finite element analysis (NLFEA) procedure to estimate the punching shear resisting performance of reinforced concrete slab-column connections under variable connection shear stress conditions. Variation of connection stress conditions stems from columns with different cross section aspect ratios, different distributions of gravity loading conditions, and slabs constructed with significantly different planar reinforcement conditions in the orthogonal directions. In this regard, thirty-five isolated slab-column connection specimens presented in the literature were analyzed using a shell finite element-based analysis procedure and the results from these analyses were used to assess NLFEA model performance. All results were developed using a predefined set of material models and analysis parameters, defined on the basis of prior and unrelated validation studies, and were shown to provide good agreement with experimental findings without the need for extensive calibration studies or the adoption of case-specific failure criteria. From the findings obtained, it was determined that the thick-shell NLFEA employed is suitable for estimating the punching shear response for slabs subjected to varied and highly non-uniform shear stresses within the connection regions and provided similar levels of precisions as that previously obtained for isolated slab-column connections constructed with idealized geometries and reinforcing conditions, and subject to idealized loading conditions.