Finite Element Modeling of Tension Stiffening and Cracking of Reinforced Concrete Components: State of Art

Abstract

The scientific community has been debating the vulnerability of structures to progressive collapse and how to mitigate the impact of local damages leading to un-proportional collapse. Recent tragedies have highlighted the necessity for particular design requirements to provide appropriate safety levels against progressive collapse as a result of damages caused by unusual loads. The performance of composite and reinforced concrete components in the realm of large displacements is presently the focus of study. The behaviour of reinforced concrete (RC) components, as well as the finite element model used to simulate RC parts under tension, were critically examined. This has aided in the understanding of concrete's non-negligible contribution to tension stiffening response up to failure, particularly in the case of composite constructions with discontinuous geometry. The extensive study of literature provided insight into various modelling techniques and advised that experimental and numerical research be used to enhance diverse possibilities of model exploration.