Numerical Verification of Strut and Tie Models and Failure Modes of Reinforced Self-Compacting Concrete Deep Beams

Abstract

This study utilized Finite Element Method (FEM) to analyse the structural behaviour and failure modes of Reinforced Self Compacting Concrete (RSCC) deep beams. Eighteen deep beam specimens subjected to four-point loadings were modelled and analyzed using Abaqus modelling tool. Damage plasticity model was used to characterised the nonlinear behaviour of concrete material while linear elastic, linear-plastic-hardening model represented the reinforcing steel material behaviour. The results of the finite model were compared with four different Strut and Tie Models (STMs) using one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Results of the numerical study revealed that the concrete strength and shear span to depth ratio mostly affect the load-deflection response of the beams. Also, the failure modes of the studied deep beams were influenced by shear span to depth ratio, concrete strength as well as web reinforcement distribution. The ANOVA results also showed that the FEM outperformed the existing STMs.