Micro-Macro Simulation Technique Combined with Multilevel Damage Assessment Methodology for RC Building Structures

Abstract EN

In order to assess the inherent damage mechanism of reinforced concrete (RC) structures, a micro-macro simulation technique combined with multilevel damage assessment methodology is presented.

An element-coupling model is developed by combining mixed dimensional finite elements with the aid of multipoint constraint equations, which could be achieved from the energy conservation principle.

Thus, the micro-scale damage details could be obtained in a macro-scale setting of the global structure.

Furthermore, using different damage indicators, a generalized damage model is combined with the multilevel damage performance to assess the damage evolution.

Finally, an in situ lateral loading test of a real RC frame structure was analyzed to verify this proposed damage assessment methodology.

The finite element method utilizing the proposed damage model products results in good agreement with those of the tests.

It shows that the proposed methodology is a very helpful tool to assess and reveal the inherent damage mechanism of RC structures.