Title: Deflection Analysis of Reinforced Concrete Members Using Finite Element Method

Author(s): M. A. Polak, A. Scanlon, and D. V. Phillips

Publication: Symposium Paper

Volume: 161

Issue:

Appears on pages(s): 75-96

Keywords: deflection; finite element method; models; reinforced concrete; slabs; stiffness; strains; Structural Research

DOI: 10.14359/1441

Date: 4/1/1996

Abstract:
Presents available algorithms for deflection calculations of reinforced concrete (RC) beams, plates, and shells, using nonlinear finite element analysis. Detailed finite element formulations based on the layered approach and nonlinear constitutive laws are discussed and evaluated. The layered approach, through the rigorous treatment of the states of strain and stress can model complex behavior of both thin and thick plates. Further refinements can be incorporated using full three-dimensional modelling; this approach is briefly discussed in the paper. Alternative, simpler approaches based on the effective stiffness formulation are presented in the paper. The results of the finite element effective stiffness analyses are compared to both experimental results and the results of the layered analyses. Time-dependent effects of creep and shrinkage have a significant effect on deflections of reinforced concrete structures. The methods of incorporating these effects into layered and effective stiffness analyses are discussed in the paper. To demonstrate the usefulness of the finite element analysis, several examples of numerical results are presented and compared to experimental data. The examples include slabs with different loading, boundary, and reinforcement conditions.