Title: Spring Network Models For Analysis of Reinforced Concrete Columns under Cyclic loading

Author(s): S. Saito and T. Higai

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 205

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 97-120

Keywords: cyclic loading; discrete crack; reinforced concrete columns; rigid-body-spring network; shear failure

DOI: 10.14359/11636

Date: 1/1/2002

Abstract:
A computationally efftcient procedure is presented for analyzing the performance of reinforced concrete structures under cyclic loading. A rigid-body-spring network is used as a basis of a material representation. Concrete is modeled as an assemblage of discrete particles interconnected along their boundaries through flexible interfaces. Random geometry is introduced using Voronoi diagrams in order to reduce mesh bias on crack propagation. Rather than averaging the effects of reinforcing over a regional material volume, rein-forcing bars are explicitly modeled using line elements with nonlinear linkage springs. The spring network has the advantage to model material discontinuities and provides realistic predictions of concrete cracking. The network performance is demonstrated through analyses of reinforced concrete columns under cyclic loading. Numerical results reasonably agree with experimental observations in terms of load carrying capacity and crack propagation. Deterioration of load carrying capacity due to shear failure after or before yielding of main reinforcing steel is discussed through the numerical predictions.