Experimental validation of finite element models for reinforced concrete beams with and without discontinuites

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to assess the degree of accuracy in modelling the dynamic behaviour of reinforced concrete beams with and without discontinuities. Finite element models of three damaged and undamaged reinforced concrete beams were developed in Abaqus combining solid and beam elements and experimentally validated using experimental modal analysis. For the undamaged beams the agreement between the lowest 24 eigenfrequencies from the models and the measurements were within ∗3 %. For the damaged beams, the agreement was within 4 % above the lowest axial mode, whereas the errors were up to 10 % below the lowest axial mode. The validated finite element models will be used for further studies on the dynamic behaviour of collapsed reinforced concrete buildings.