Nonlinear finite elements modeling and experiments of FRP-reinforced concrete piles under shear loads

Abstract

A numerical analysis investigation, using finite element model (FEM) and modified compression field theory (MCFT), was conducted to evaluate the shear capacity and behavior of circular concrete piles reinforced with steel and FRP bars by considering shear behavior, shear strength, and deflection shape. The FEM and MCFT models were verified against the experimental results of full-scale circular concrete speciemns previously tested by the authors. Load-deformation response curve, load-strain for the concrete and reinforced rebars were predicted using finite element analysis were compared to experimental results. The FEM outcomes showed that the model was able to capture the behavior of the specimens with good accuracy. While, the modified compression field theory using Response 2000 (R2K) software provided good predictions of the shear strength with an average value of Vexp/VResponse2000 for specimens is 1.17. Subsequently, a parameric study was performed to study the effect of member’s depth (300, 400, and 600 mm), longitudinal reinforcement ratio (1.5, 2.5, and 3.5%), and reinforcing bars material (Steel, Glass-FRP, Carbon-FRP) on the behaviour of circular concrete piles.