Nonlinear finite element analysis of reinforced concrete slab strengthened with shear bolts

Abstract EN

This paper presents an implementation of a rational three-dimensional nonlinear finite element model for evaluating the behavior of reinforced concrete slabs strengthened with shear bolts under transverse load.

The concrete was idealized by using eight-nodded brick elements.

While both flexural reinforcement and the shear bolts were modeled as truss elements, a perfected bond between brick elements and truss elements was assumed.

The nonlinear behavior of concrete in compression is simulated by an elasto-plastic work-hardening model, and in tension a suitable post-cracking model based on tension stiffening and shear retention models are employed.

The steel was simulated using an elastic-full plastic model.

The validity of the theoretical formulations and the program used was verified through comparison with available experimental data, and the agreement has proven to be good.

A parametric study has been also carried out to investigate the influence of the shear bolts’ diameter and number of bolts’ rows around the column-slab connection, on the ductility and ultimate load capacity of slabs.