ABAQUS Model Research Articles

Research on Concrete Beam Damage Detection Using Convolutional Neural Networks and Vibrations from ABAQUS Models and Computer Vision

Researchers have already used vibration data and deep learning methods, such as Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), to detect structural damage. Moreover, some researchers have employed image-based displacement sensors (such as the template matching and edge detection methods) to obtain structural vibration information. It is necessary to verify whether deep learning methods can detect minor damage inside beams, for example, small hollowing in concrete. In addition, there is an urgent need to develop an effective image-based displacement sensor that can simultaneously detect a large number of reliable vibration data from different measurement points. In this study, the vibration data of two beam-ABAQUS models were used as the input data for a newly designed deep learning-based structural health monitoring method. There were 500 vibration samples for each case, and the peak of vibrations was several millimeters. The proposed CNN model can locate damage positions in beams with high accuracy (close to 100%), and the damage sizes are 3 cm and 6 cm. Laboratory experiments were carried out on four beams with different damage. The optimized displacement sensor developed based on the edge detection method was used to detect the displacement of the beams. Each beam had 200 vibration data, and there were 800 vibration data in total. These vibration data were used as input data to train the proposed deep learning architecture, and satisfactory accuracy was achieved in detecting the damage of the beams with an accuracy of 97%. The training process is satisfactory in that the training loss and validation loss dropped very quickly.

Previsão de manutenção de pavimentos rígidos usando simulações numéricas e redes neurais artificiais

Abstract This work is concerned with the simulation of pavement behavior using the Finite Element Method (FEM) with the goal of predicting the appearance of cracks during its useful life. The developed method can help maintenance planning towards providing users with safety and comfort. The effects of both traffic loads and temperature variations are considered. Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools are adopted to reduce the time necessary for the interpretation of simulation results for the development of an efficient pavement management system. The developed rigid pavement management system uses the Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) technique for the prediction of both pavement response to fatigue accumulation and the behavior of the modeled pavement with a high degree of precision. The networks showed 4.5% and 3.6% square errors for positive and negative temperature gradients and 95% and 97% data correlation, respectively. The SR stress ratio obtained by the developed ABAQUS model is 0.614 and the value provided by the pavement management system is 0.648. The developed methodology was applied to a section of highway BR-101/NE, between the states of Paraiba PR and Pernambuco PE, in Brazil. Comparing the results with the limits provided by National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP) for traffic in the study, this pavement would require maintenance every six months. The maximum values of tensile stress due to bending were obtained by combining the positive temperature gradient with the traffic axis load at the edge during the summer months (December to March) due to the higher thermal gradient values.

Horizontal mechanical performance of the upper beam frame with beam-beam connection of traditional wooden building

This paper presents the analytical model of the beam-beam connection (BBC) and studies the horizontal mechanical performance of the upper beam frame assembled by BBC. The different compressive stress distributions at the contact interfaces of the BBC with intersection angles 2π/4, 2π/5, 2π/6, 2π/7 and 2π/8 are analyzed when it rotates in clockwise and anticlockwise directions, also the deformation and friction characteristics of the BBC with intersection angles 2π/5, 2π/6, 2π/7 and 2π/8 when it rotates in two directions are discussed, then the analytical model of the BBC is proposed. Also, the moment-angle curves of the proposed model with multiple angles are checked by the results of the numerical models in Abaqus. Furthermore, the horizontal mechanical performance of the upper beam frame assembled by BBC is studied under in-plane load. The results show that frictional slip at the contact interfaces of BBC with angles 2π/5, 2π/6, 2π/7 and 2π/8 when it rotates in anticlockwise direction should be considered in modeling process, and it can be ignored of BBC with angles 2π/4, 2π/5, 2π/6, 2π/7 and 2π/8 when it rotates in clockwise direction. The results of the proposed model agree with those of the numerical model basically. The resistance increases with the number of the beams of frames, and the resistance characteristics of the hexagonal and octagonal frames are similar. The research results can be further applied to the model analysis of beam-column structures of the traditional Chinese wooden building.

A FEM-based model for failure initiation in the microstructure of gray cast iron under uniaxial compression

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to validate the feasibility of the proposed microstructure-based model by comparing the simulation results with experimental data. The study also aimed to investigate the relationship between the orientation of graphite flakes and the failure behavior of the material under compressive loads as well as the effect of image size on the accuracy of stress–strain behavior predictions.Design/methodology/approachThis paper presents a microstructure-based model that utilizes the finite element method (FEM) combined with representative volume elements (RVE) to simulate the hardening and failure behavior of ferrite-pearlite matrix gray cast iron under uniaxial loading conditions. The material was first analyzed using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) to identify the different phases and their characteristics. High-resolution SEM images of the undeformed material microstructure were then converted into finite element meshes using OOF2 software. The Johnson–Cook (J–C) model, along with a damage model, was employed in Abaqus FEA software to estimate the elastic and elastoplastic behavior under assumed plane stress conditions.FindingsThe findings indicate that crack initiation and propagation in gray cast iron begin at the interface between graphite particles and the pearlitic matrix, with microcrack networks extending into the metal matrix, eventually coalescing to cause material failure. The ferritic phase within the material contributes some ductility, thereby delaying crack initiation.Originality/valueThis study introduces a novel approach by integrating microstructural analysis with FEM and RVE techniques to accurately model the hardening and failure behavior of gray cast iron under uniaxial loading. The incorporation of high-resolution SEM images into finite element meshes, combined with the J–C model and damage assessment in Abaqus, provides a comprehensive method for predicting material performance. This approach enhances the understanding of the microstructural influences on crack initiation and propagation, offering valuable insights for improving the design and durability of gray cast iron components.

Strengthening of Masonry Structures by Sisal-Reinforced Geopolymers

The development of alternative environmentally friendly and sustainable materials in the construction industry has become a fundamental area of research. The current cementitious materials used in existing retrofitting techniques for masonry structures are unsustainable from an environmental point of view. The geopolymer, as a suitable alternative to ordinary Portland cement (OPC), has attracted interest in the last 20 years due to its environmental sustainability and improved properties compared to conventional concrete. To improve the ductile behavior of geopolymers, the adoption of fibers has been widely proposed in the scientific literature for a broad range of applications. The adoption of natural fibers can make geopolymers more advantageous based on their intrinsic environmental sustainability. The aim of this paper is to validate the performance of sisal fiber-reinforced geopolymer plaster as a strengthening material for masonry structures, which will be achieved by modeling the mechanical behavior of geopolymer samples in two different phases. The first phase accounts for the experimental results suitably obtained in the laboratory, while the second phase models the behavior of a masonry panel reinforced with geopolymer plaster using a suitable FEM model in Abaqus.

An innovative two-level yielding knee-braced frame with deformation-controlled ring damper

Previous earthquake experiences have shown that conventional yielding dampers designed for an earthquake intensity cannot perform adequately at higher intensity levels. This paper addresses this issue by proposing a two-level yielding configuration for knee-braced steel frames having an innovative deformation-controlled ring damper (CRD). The proposed configuration includes a knee element damper (KED) and a CRD with a deformation-control device. In weak or moderate earthquakes, the CRD serves as the primary energy absorber. In contrast, in higher-intensity earthquakes, the deformation of the CRD is controlled and the KED acts as a secondary fuse for energy dissipation. In this study, four traditional ring dampers with different geometric properties and two CRD were experimentally tested and their numerical models in Abaqus were successfully verified. The results demonstrated stable and asymmetric hysteretic curves with satisfactory ductility and energy absorption of the ring dampers. Additionally, the CRD revealed a proper control of deformation. Subsequently, a previously tested knee-braced frame specimen with the common ring damper was numerically modeled. After verifying the validity of the model, the behavior of a typical knee-braced frame equipped with a deformation-controlled multi-ring damper (CRD-KBF) was investigated and compared with a common KBF and ring-braced frame (RBF). The obtained results confirmed the expected two-level yielding behavior of the proposed configuration. The numerical analyses demonstrated higher ductility and energy dissipation capacity of the CRD-KBF compared to the other frames.

Numerical simulation on structural behavior of FRP profile‐concrete hybrid beams with bolt shear connector

AbstractFRP profile‐concrete hybrid beam, composed of a FRP profile beam, a concrete slab made of normal concrete (NC) or ultra‐high‐performance‐concrete (UHPC), and shear connectors, shows significant potential for employment in large‐span bridges due to its excellent corrosion resistance, lightweight, and easy construction. The structural behavior of such hybrid beam was simulated using a three‐dimensional non‐linear finite element model (FEM) in Abaqus. The Hashin failure model and concrete damage plastic (CDP) model were employed to characterize the progressive failure of FRP, NC, and UHPC, respectively. The FEM considered partial shear connection by utilizing shear load‐slip model and the orthotropic behavior of the FRP profile. The proposed FEM was validated through comparisons with experimental data in terms of load‐midspan deflection curve, load‐end slip curve, and failure modes. A parametric study was subsequently conducted to identify the effects of various factors, including concrete strength, bolt spacing, concrete slab width, concrete slab height, FRP flange and web thickness, and shear span. Based on the results yielded from FEM analysis, the accuracy of the calculation method in Chinese standard (GB‐50608) for predicting the loading capacity of hybrid beams was evaluated and found too conservative.

Deformation level and specimen geometry in compression perpendicular to the grain of solid timber, GLT and CLT timber products

Compression Perpendicular to Grain (CPG) is a crucial aspect of timber design, particularly with the advent of engineering wood products like Cross Laminated Timber (CLT), often used in point-supported structures. After many years of discussion, the mechanics-based model by Van der Put has finally been included in the new Eurocode draft. This model offers a more systematic approach to design with a solid theoretical foundation for stress dispersion. However, there is still a need for improvement, especially in two areas: accounting for the capacity increment associated with increasing levels of deformation and determining the maximum effective height to be assumed in calculating the load spreading in deep timber elements. In this paper, the authors focus on these two areas of improvement for GLT, solid timber and CLT timber products. They analyse the data of two extensive experimental campaigns conducted at Norsk Treteknisk Institutt (Norwegian Institute of Wood Technology) and at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) on Glued Laminated Timber (GLT), Solid Timber (ST) and CLT. Additionally, they validated a parametric finite element (FE) model in Abaqus to assess the effect of the height of the timber element on stress distribution. A parametric approach developed in Abaqus aims to find the optimal height threshold to be assumed in the new code formulation.

Structural Damage Detection under Ambient Excitation Using Symbolic Three-Order Square Matrix Formed by Specific-Interval-Sampled Time-Domain Signals.

In the structural health monitoring of vibration systems, varying excitation always affects the accuracy of damage identification. The proposed symbolic three-order square matrix damage detection method with the matrix norm as a damage indicator can solve the difficult problem of damage identification under ambient excitation. The new sampling pattern extracts data from signals in the time domain at specific intervals based on the structural properties with the help of the autocorrelation coefficient. Then, the data extracted are converted into symbols and arranged into a three-order square matrix, and the Frobenius norm of the matrix is used for structural damage identification as a reliable damage indicator. In this process, the transmissibility function is employed to eliminate the effects of varying excitation. First, the method was verified by a cracked simply supported beam-a simulated Abaqus model. Then, a wooden truss bridge in the laboratory and an actual engineering scenario under ambient excitation together demonstrated the effectiveness and accuracy of the damage identification method and proved the proposed method to be robust to different types of damage under ambient excitation. Compared with other related methods, this method is more intuitive and efficient.

Effect of joint-slippage on transmission tower performance with a simplified model of bolted joints

ABSTRACT Bolted joint behaviour is a key parameter in predicting transmission tower performance. Various types of joints are based on the number of bolts and their configuration. However, a few types of these joints were tested or modelled. In the present study, the load-deformation response of transmission tower joints as a joint behaviour was predicted using a simplified numerical model. Then, available experimental load-deformation responses of joints were used to verify the results of the proposed model. In the last step, the joint behaviours of a 400 kV transmission tower were predicted with the proposed numerical model. Then, the evaluation of the tower’s response was done with a numerical model in ABAQUS under testing loading conditions. Lastly, the deformation of a full-scale tested tower was compared with the numerical results. The numerical model results show a good agreement with the experimental results. The ultimate strength and its corresponding displacement at the full-scale model are predicted with an error of about 4%. Moreover, the failure mode of the transmission tower was not affected by the behaviour of the joints.

Evaluation of finite element modeling methods for predicting compression screw failure in a custom pelvic implant.

Introduction: Three-dimensional (3D)-printed custom pelvic implants have become a clinically viable option for patients undergoing pelvic cancer surgery with resection of the hip joint. However, increased clinical utilization has also necessitated improved implant durability, especially with regard to the compression screws used to secure the implant to remaining pelvic bone. This study evaluated six different finite element (FE) screw modeling methods for predicting compression screw pullout and fatigue failure in a custom pelvic implant secured to bone using nine compression screws. Methods: Three modeling methods (tied constraints (TIE), bolt load with constant force (BL-CF), and bolt load with constant length (BL-CL)) generated screw axial forces using functionality built into Abaqus FE software; while the remaining three modeling methods (isotropic pseudo-thermal field (ISO), orthotropic pseudo-thermal field (ORT), and equal-and-opposite force field (FOR)) generated screw axial forces using iterative physics-based relationships that can be implemented in any FE software. The ability of all six modeling methods to match specified screw pretension forces and predict screw pullout and fatigue failure was evaluated using an FE model of a custom pelvic implant with total hip replacement. The applied hip contact forces in the FE model were estimated at two locations in a gait cycle. For each of the nine screws in the custom implant FE model, likelihood of screw pullout failure was predicted using maximum screw axial force, while likelihood of screw fatigue failure was predicted using maximum von Mises stress. Results: The three iterative physics-based modeling methods and the non-iterative Abaqus BL-CL method produced nearly identical predictions for likelihood of screw pullout and fatigue failure, while the other two built-in Abaqus modeling methods yielded vastly different predictions. However, the Abaqus BL-CL method required the least computation time, largely because an iterative process was not needed to induce specified screw pretension forces. Of the three iterative methods, FOR required the fewest iterations and thus the least computation time. Discussion: These findings suggest that the BL-CL screw modeling method is the best option when Abaqus is used for predicting screw pullout and fatigue failure in custom pelvis prostheses, while the iterative physics-based FOR method is the best option if FE software other than Abaqus is used.

Deflection and stress characteristics of single lap joint (adhesively bonded) theoretical analysis and experimental verification

The adhesively bonded single-lap joint strength is computed numerically and verified with the experiment. An ABAQUS model is prepared to analyze by adding the primary information, i.e., geometry, material properties, element, and solution type, including the boundary conditions. The model accuracy has been verified through two-step comparisons with published numerical deflection data and in-house experiments. The validated model is used to compute the energy-absorbing capacity better to understand lap joint strength. Further, the statistical analysis (variance-based sensitivity analysis) is conducted to measure the model output variability with the model input parameter. Additionally, the influences of geometry and property-dependent design parameters (layup schemes, loading position, adherend thickness ratio (L/t), and adhesive thickness ratio: (a/h), including the overlapping length (25, 30, 35, and 40 mm) are examined through several examples. The conclusions on the overlap length in bonded joints are that an increase in intact/lap length improves the joint stiffness and decreases the deflection. Similarly, a few insights on layer sequence (angle-ply) and shear stress thickness ratio are discussed in detail.

Elastoplastic Mechanical Properties and Kinematic Hardening Model of 35CrNi3MoVR.

The existing tensile-compression elastoplastic models are not suitable for varies of materials. An accurate constitutive model of the elastoplastic mechanical properties more suitable for 35CrNi3MoVR was produced by optimizing the existing fitting equations based on uniaxial tensile-compression tests, which are able to describe the elastoplastic stress-strain relation and Bauschinger effect varying with the maximum tensile plastic strain. A UMAT subroutine of the constitutive model in ABAQUS was proposed and conducted for FEM calculation. Hydraulic autofrettage tests were carried out under different pressures on thick-walled 35CrNi3MoVR tubes, and the results were compared with those of FEM calculations to further validate the accuracy of the fitting model. The results show that the constructed power function kinematic hardening model can effectively describe the elastoplastic mechanical properties of 35CrNi3MoVR and can be applied to the autofrettage calculation of this material. The comparison among the calculation results of different models proved that the model proposed in this research has better performance compared to other existing models. Taking the Mises stress at the inner surface of the thick-walled tubes as the evaluation criterion, the error of the power function kinematic hardening model reaches less than 3%, decreasing the error by at least 50%.

Seismic fragility analysis of prefabricated self-centering frame structure

The seismic fragility of prefabricated self-centering frame structures composed of self-centering joints is investigated for reference in their seismic design and application. In this paper, a new design of the concrete-filled double steel tubular column-RC beam joint with self-centering capability and friction energy dissipation was proposed. The joint was modeled with ABAQUS and OpenSees, and hysteretic simulation was carried out to verify the reasonableness and accuracy of the OpenSees phenomenological model. Based on the OpenSees platform, a one-bay, six-story prefabricated self-centering frame structure was modeled, and seismic fragility analysis based on the incremental dynamic analysis was performed, in which seismic fragility curves were obtained according to the probabilistic demand analysis model. The results indicated a high coincidence in hysteretic curves between the ABAQUS model and the OpenSees phenomenological model, which showed favorable self-centering and energy dissipation performance of the joint proposed in this paper. Based on FEMA 356, three kinds of performance points were defined, i.e., “Immediate Occupancy” (IO), “Life Safety” (LS), and “Collapse Prevention” (CP). The prefabricated self-centering frame in this paper tended to exceed the IO, where the stiffness and strength of the structure was susceptible to damage. However, the failure probability at the LS performance level remained low, with only 5% and 37% failure probability under moderate and rare earthquakes, respectively. The structure achieved a collapse margin ratio of 4.28, which indicated a high collapse resistance in it.

Understanding the dynamics of in-situ micro-rolling in directed energy deposition using thermo-mechanical finite-element analyses

Rolling in Directed Energy Deposition (DED) has shown promising improvements in build quality by providing compressive deformations. The rolling dynamics and associated boundary conditions are crucial for how these deformations impact the stress–strain profiles on the deposited part and substrate. This study investigates these impacts by developing a fully coupled dynamic-thermo-mechanical finite-element model in Abaqus for in-situ micro-rolling in DED. Single bead analyses have been done with a 2D heat flux moving ahead of the roller at a fixed offset. Two rolling boundary condition cases with varying friction at the roller-bead interface have been examined: (i) only translation defined with rotation calculated from roller-bead interaction and (ii) translation with a defined rotation corresponding to a no-slip condition. In the first case, analyses have shown that the surface stress–strain conditions and rolling load variation are susceptible to interfacial friction. With increasing friction, the surface conditions deteriorate and variations in rolling load increase. However, beyond the surface, the overall stress–strain profiles remain similar. The surface stress–strain profile and rolling load variation have been smoothened in the second case because of the defined rotation. Further, a comparison has been made between the results of dynamic-explicit analyses and static-implicit analyses to quantify the roller’s inertia effects. The stress–strain profiles predicted by both analyses have marginal differences but with 16 % over-prediction in rolling load by dynamic-explicit analyses. These results imply that the roller’s inertia marginally affects the deposited part’s stress–strain evolution but has a notable role in rolling load. Also, providing an external drive to the roller corresponding to the second case can effectively minimise the deteriorating effects of roller-bead interfacial friction.

Analysis of the Dynamic Behavior of Multi-Layered Soil Grounds

The ground consists of many layers of soil with different properties. The propagation speed and path of seismic waves are affected by different soil layers. It is necessary to understand that layered soil exhibits different dynamic behaviors and responses under the action of seismic waves. This study utilized weathered soil and silica sand as materials to create multi-layered soil conditions with varying degrees of compaction. By conducting a 1 g shaking-table test on multi-layered soil, the interactions and influences between different soil layers under different earthquake conditions were observed. The approach of our numerical analysis aimed to complement the experimental results and provide an in-depth understanding of the dynamic behavior of multi-layered soil surfaces during seismic events. The acceleration results achieved with the ABAQUS and DEEPSOIL models for multi-layered soil were in good agreement with the experimental results. By comparing the stress–strain curves, the deformation mechanisms under different constitutive models in the numerical analysis were studied. The results of this study show that the amplification effect of seismic waves is related to the number of soil layers and the degree of compaction of the soil layers. This indicates that multi-layered soil ground and the behavior of the soil layers play an important role in the propagation and impact of seismic waves, and this amplification effect is of great significance in the design of actual seismic disaster risk assessments.

Vibration response of ultra-shallow floor beam composite floors

This paper examines the vibration response of the steel–concrete composite ultra-shallow floor beam (USFB) flooring system, which incorporates asymmetric steel perforated beams to accommodate the concrete floor slab within the depth of the flanges while allowing reinforcement and/or service ducts to pass through the web openings. This is a lightweight flooring system that can accommodate long spans, thus becoming susceptible to floor vibrations due to external resonant dynamic loads. To investigate the influence of slab thickness and boundary conditions on the natural frequencies of the USFB flooring system, parametric studies are conducted using a finite-element model and five floor spans. The model was first validated against an experimental test conducted by the authors. Emphasis is placed on the fundamental frequency to predict the possibility of resonance of this complex flooring system with typical human-induced dynamic loads in building structures. To further facilitate the practical numerical modelling and vibration analysis of buildings with USFB floors in standard commercial structural software, an analytical method of deriving equivalent isotropic plate properties is developed and its accuracy is numerically verified with regard to detailed Abaqus models.

Hygrothermal performance of micro inhomogeneous insulation materials - EPS-based wall panel

Presence of water in liquid or vapor form leads to mould growth in building materials, weakening the building's structural integrity. Excess moisture in non-breathable materials also impacts thermal properties and performance over time. Hygrothermal analysis and understanding moisture movement within walls are crucial for comprehending wall assemblies in the enclosed spaces of buildings. Numerous commercial software packages are available for estimating moisture risk in wall assemblies. However, it's essential to recognize that these software tools are primarily designed for conventional insulation walls and may not be suitable for materials like EPS-based concrete, which incorporate expanded polystyrene particles. Since micro-level analysis of moisture flow is largely unexplored, this study used mass diffusion theory with ABAQUS-CAE. The study found that EPS beads increased moisture levels in walls by 2–6%. Additionally, due to the porous nature of concrete, moisture penetration and fluctuations were lower compared to other materials. Accumulated moisture made the wall impermeable and weakened the load-bearing material over time. To mitigate moisture effects of 20–28 %, it's recommended to use cement-fiberboard (CFB), which can be replaced if damaged without affecting structural integrity. SEM and EDX/EDAX analyses were used to show moisture accumulation at the micro level. It was observed that more oxygen elements were present at the border of the EPS-bead-mortar mix. The fuzzy-based MCDM method helped mitigate uncertainty in parameter selection, while ABAQUS model analysis considered different scenarios with variations in parameters. This research helps developers and practitioners choose materials with low concrete solubility and high concrete vapor diffusion factors for EPS-based panels, reducing moisture damage.

Experimental and numerical analysis on shear capacity of steel-reinforced geopolymer concrete beams with different shear span ratios

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to use the corrected stress field theory to derive the shear capacity of geopolymer concrete beams (GPC) and consider the shear-span ratio as a major factor affecting the shear capacity. This research aims to provide guidance for studying the shear capacity of GPC and to observe how the failure modes of beams change with the variation of the shear-span ratio, thereby discovering underlying patterns.Design/methodology/approachThree test beams with shear span ratios of 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5 are investigated in this paper. For GPC beams with shear-span ratios of 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5, ultimate capacities are 337kN, 235kN and 195kN, respectively. Transitioning from 1.5 to 2.0 results in a 30% decrease in capacity, a reduction of 102kN. Moving from 2.0 to 2.5 sees a 17% decrease, with a loss of 40KN in capacity. A shear capacity formula, derived from modified compression field theory and considering concrete shear strength, stirrups and aggregate interlocking force, was validated through finite element modeling. Additionally, models with shear ratios of 1 and 3 were created to observe crack propagation patterns.FindingsFor GPC beams with shear-span ratios of 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5, ultimate capacities of 337KN, 235KN and 195KN are achieved, respectively. A reduction in capacity of 102KN occurs when transitioning from 1.5 to 2.0 and a decrease of 40KN is observed when moving from 2.0 to 2.5. The average test-to-theory ratio, at 1.015 with a variance of 0.001, demonstrates strong agreement. ABAQUS models beams with ratios ranging from 1.0 to 3.0, revealing crack trends indicative of reduced crack angles with higher ratios. The failure mode observed in the models aligns with experimental results.Originality/valueThis article provides a reference for the shear bearing capacity formula of geopolymer reinforced concrete (GRC) beams, addressing the limited research in this area. Additionally, an exponential model incorporating the shear-span ratio as a variable was employed to calculate the shear capacity, based on previous studies. Moreover, the analysis of shear capacity results integrated literature from prior research. By fitting previous experimental data to the proposed formula, the accuracy of this study's derived formula was further validated, with theoretical values aligning well with experimental results. Additionally, guidance is offered for utilizing ABAQUS in simulating the failure process of GRC beams.

Low-Cycle Fatigue Behavior and the Combined Cyclic Hardening Material Model of Plate-Shaped Zn-22Al Alloy for Seismic Dampers.

This study investigates the potential of the plate-shaped Zn-22 wt.% Al (Zn-22Al) alloy as an innovative energy dissipation material for seismic damping devices, since plate-shaped material is more suitable to fabricate large-scale devices for building structures. The research begins with the synthesis of Zn-22Al alloy, given its unavailability in the commercial market. Monotonic tensile tests and low-cycle fatigue tests are performed to analyze material properties and fatigue performance of plate-shaped specimens. Monotonic tensile curves and cyclic stress-strain curves, along with SEM micrographs for microstructure and fracture surface analysis, are acquired. The combined cyclic hardening material model is calibrated to facilitate finite element analysis. Experimental results reveal exceptional ductility in Zn-22Al alloy, achieving a fracture strain of 200.37% (1.11 fracture strain). Fatigue life ranges from 1126 to 189 cycles with increasing strain amplitude (±0.8% to ±2.5%), surpassing mild steel by at least 6 times. The cyclic strain-life relationships align well with the Basquin-Coffin-Manson relationship. The combined kinematic/isotropic hardening model in ABAQUS accurately predicts the hysteretic behavior of the material, showcasing the promising potential of Zn-22Al alloy for seismic damping applications.