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Title: Modeling Beam-Membrane Interface in Reinforced Concrete Frames

Author(s): Vahid Sadeghian, Oh-Sung Kwon, and Frank Vecchio

Publication: Structural Journal

Volume: 115

Issue: 3

Appears on pages(s): 825-835

Keywords: beam-membrane coupling; multi-scale modeling; nonlinear analysis; reinforced concrete; shear behavior

DOI: 10.14359/51701130

Date: 5/1/2018

Abstract:
Multi-scale analysis, which involves combining advanced elements with computationally fast elements, is an effective method for assessing the behavior of large structures with deficient or complex members. One major challenge in multi-scale analysis is modeling the interface between the two types of elements. This study presents a new interface element for connecting a beam element to membrane elements, specifically formulated for reinforced concrete members. The proposed element considers reinforced concrete a composite material, is capable of computing linear and nonlinear stress distributions through the section, and allows for transverse expansion at the interface section. The accuracy of the interface element is verified through analysis of a series of beam specimens presented in the literature. The improvements of the proposed method are compared against two commonly used beam-membrane coupling methods. Lastly, the application of the interface element is demonstrated by multi-scale analysis of a reinforced concrete frame structure with critical joints.