Modeling parameters for the nonlinear analysis of reinforced concrete beams under cyclic loading

Abstract

Current seismic evaluation standards empirically developed the plastic deformation parameters for the nonlinear analysis of RC beams based on existing test results, without a firm theoretical background. It is well recognized that the modeling parameters might overestimate or underestimate the deformation capacity of concrete beams. This is partly because the nominal shear strength equation used to determine the modeling parameters showed significant deviation, compared to existing test results. The present study developed a theoretical plastic deformation model for the nonlinear analysis of RC beams under cyclic loading. The nonlinear parameters were determined based on the fundamental failure mechanism of concrete beams after flexural yielding. The proposed model was verified by comparing its predictions with existing experimental results and the predictions by the current seismic evaluation standard ASCE 41–17. Based on the proposed model, the effects of various design parameters on the nonlinear parameters were also analyzed and investigated in detail. In addition, analysis examples using the proposed parameters were presented. © 2020 Elsevier Ltd