Application of FE approach to deformation analysis of RC elements under direct tension

Abstract

Heterogeneous structure and, particularly, low resistance to tension stresses leads to different mechanical properties of the concrete in different loading situations. To solve this problem, the tension zone of concrete elements is reinforced. Development of the cracks, however, becomes even more complicated in the presence of bar reinforcement. Direct tension test is the common layout for analyzing mechanical properties of reinforced concrete. This study investigates scatter of the test results related with arrangement of bar reinforcement. It employs results of six elements with square 60 × 60 mm cross-section reinforced with one or four 5 mm bars. Differently to the common research practice (limited to the average deformation response), this study presents recordings of numerous strain gauges, which allows to monitor/assess evolution of the deformations during the test. A simple procedure for variation assessment of elasticity modulus of the concrete is proposed. The variation analysis reveals different deformation behavior of the concrete in the prisms with different distribution of the reinforcement bars. Application of finite element approach to carefully collected experimental data has revealed the effects, which were neglected during the test results interpretation stage.