A 3D numerical model for reinforced and prestressed concrete elements subjected to combined axial, bending, shear and torsion loading

This paper presents a model for the analysis of reinforced and prestressed concrete frame elements under combined loading conditions, including axial force, biaxial bending, torsion and biaxial shear force. The proposed model is based on the simple kinematic assumptions of the Timoshenko beam theory and holds for curved three dimensional frame elements with arbitrary cross-section geometry. The control sections of the frame element are subdivided into regions with 1D, 2D and 3D material response. The constitutive material model for reinforced and prestressed concrete follows the basic assumptions of the Modified Compression Field Theory with a tangent-stiffness formulation. The validity of the model is established by comparing its results with several well-known tests from the literature. These simulations include a variety of load combinations under bending, shear and torsion. The analytical results show excellent agreement with experimental data regarding the ultimate strength of the specimen and the local strain response from initiation of cracking to ultimate load. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.