Numerical investigation of reinforced concrete frame behavior subjected to progressive collapse

Abstract

Progressive collapse is defined as the spread of an initial local failure of a structure. This phenomenon, caused by the removal of one or more load-bearing element, is followed by a chain of failures through the structure and ultimately leads to partial or even full collapse of an entire structure. As a result, an accurate understanding of structural behavior subjected to large displacements, caused by progressive collapse, is essential to ensure a safe structural design. A progressive collapse in buildings often starts with the removal of one or more columns and continues with the collapse of adjoining structural elements. Experimental studies on progressive collapse are generally not recommended because of its cost and safety reasons. Today, as a result of progress in computer technology, more complicated problems can be investigated numerically. In this study, a numerical model is used for nonlinear analysis of a reinforced concrete (RC) frame behavior subjected to progressive collapse. It is obtained that there is a good agreement between the results with those of the experimental study given in the literature. According to the results, it can be predicted numerically the response of an RC frame to progressive collapse at a highly accurate level.