A NEW ANALYTICAL APPROACH IN MODELLING OF CRACKING OF RC MEMBERS

Author(s): Gintaris Kaklauskas , Regimantas Ramanauskas
Paper category: Proceedings
Book title: proceedings of the International RILEM Conference on Materials, Systems and Structures in Civil Engineering Conference segment on Service Life of Cement-Based Materials and Structures
Editor(s): Miguel Azenha, Ivan Gabrijel, Dirk Schlicke, Terje Kanstad and Ole Mejlhede Jensen
ISBN:978-2-35158-170-4
e-ISBN: 978-2-35158-173-5
Publisher: RILEM Publications SARL
Publication year: 2016
Pages: 286-295
Total Pages: 10
Language : English

Abstract: Cracking is one of the most complicated phenomena of concrete structures. Multiple
theoretical models have been proposed to predict cracking characteristics, but most rely on
empiricism. The present paper proposes a simple, mechanically sound and transparent
analytical approach for crack distance analysis of RC ties. The philosophy behind the
proposed methodology is to establish the mean crack spacing through the compatibility of the
discrete cracking and smeared cracking approaches. The mean crack spacing is obtained by
equating the mean strains of both approaches. The bond stress-transfer approach governs the
strain distribution of the reinforcement between the consecutive cracks, whereas the smeared
approach provides the estimated mean strain of the element. The mean crack spacing can be
determined for any bar diameter and reinforcement ratio combination in relation to a single
mean crack distance established experimentally for the reference RC member. To ensure
compatibility between the bond stresses and the applied load, the concept of damage zones is
introduced: bond in the area adjacent to the cracks is considered to be fully damaged. A mean
crack spacing model derived using the load-strain analysis method of the Eurocode 2 was
shown to be in good agreement with experimental data of RC ties.

Online publication : 2016
Publication type : full_text
Public price (Euros) : 0.00