Title: Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis of Reinforced Concrete Membranes

Author(s): Frank J. Vecchio

Publication: Structural Journal

Volume: 86

Issue: 1

Appears on pages(s): 26-35

Keywords: finite element method; reinforced concrete; secant modulus; stiffness; strains; stresses; structural analysis; walls; Structural Research

DOI: 10.14359/2620

Date: 1/1/1989

Abstract:
Procedure is described whereby linear elastic finite element routines can be modified to enable nonlinear analysis of reinforced concrete membrane structures. The proposed procedure is based on an iterative, secant stiffness formulation and employs constitutive relations for concrete and reinforcement based on the modified compression field theory. Predictions from the proposed procedure are compared with experimental results, as well as with more complex formulations, and excellent accuracy is found. Example analyses and potential applications of the nonlinear procedure are also described.