| This thesis presents a physically based, composite steel-concrete constitutive model suitable for the analysis of the shear behavior of reinforced concrete structures. This model stems from the framework of the Modified Compression Field Theory, but has a number of new features incorporated into the kinematic conditions, aggregate-interlock mechanism, cracking criteria, and constitutive behavior of concrete. The model has been implemented for cyclic loads and validated by comparisons to experimental results of reinforced concrete panels. The constitutive model has been implemented in a Timoshenko beam-column element to enable the study of bridge piers subjected to lateral loads. Monotonic load cases have been reliably simulated. However, numerical difficulties involved in the solution of nonlinear equations cause premature termination of simulations of cyclically loaded columns. Simulation results of columns loaded laterally under monotonic and cyclic load conditions are examined. Simulations results for monotonic loading are compared with experimental results. The model is capable of capturing the brittle shear behavior of columns and allows detailed examinations of column behavior. |
