Multipurpose algorithm to simulate RC structural members: A finite element macro modeling

A nonlinear finite element-macro-element-based multipurpose algorithm to simulate the reinforced concrete (RC) structural members (SMs) “RC-SMs” such as columns, beams, beam-columns, and shear walls under cyclic combined loading is proposed which can be applied for several different types of loading. In the proposed algorithm, the SMs are divided into an appropriate number of macro-elements (MEs) and the surfaces of the critical sections are discretized into a large number of fixed rectangular finite fibers. The proposed algorithm has been validated by comparing the simulated results to the results of the experimental test on full-scale RC-SMs. To illustrate the influence of mechanical properties of materials, the influences of reinforcement percentage, the lateral force orientation angle, and the axial force on the behavior of the SM, a parametric study has been performed. The parametric study allows one to optimize the choices in compliance with the safety and economic criteria in building construction projects. Furthermore, the application of the proposed algorithm illustrates how a heavy axial force makes the SMs brittle, reduces the ductility, imposes a large amount of material loss, and causes the quick failure of the SM.