Non-linear finite element analyses based on non-linear fracture mechanics and an experimental investigation of the behavior of reinforced concrete columns are presented. The tests consisted of long, slender, eccentrically loaded reinforced normal and high strength concrete columns. The parameters varied…
Non-linear finite element analyses based on non-linear fracture mechanics and an experimental investigation of the behavior of reinforced concrete columns are presented. The tests consisted of long, slender, eccentrically loaded reinforced normal and high strength concrete columns. The parameters varied in the study were concrete strength, stirrup spacing, and slenderness of the columns. The experimental results indicate that closer stirrup spacing gives a more ductile behavior after the peak load and high strength concrete columns require more stirrups to gain the same ductility as the normal strength concrete columns. Further, the results show that increased compressive strength gives an increase of the maximum bearing capacity. The results also indicate that the midheight deflection at the maximum load depends on the slenderness of the column rather than the concrete strength. Non-linear finite element models, with material models for concrete based on non-linear fracture mechanics, have been developed and the analyses show good agreement with the test results.