Non-Linear Finite Element Analysis of Reinforced Concrete Beams with Temperature Differentials

In this study, nonlinear finite element modelling and analysis was conducted on simply supported reinforced concrete beams with temperature differentials that had previously been tested at room and low temperature. Three-dimensional finite element models of the beams were developed to account for the geometry, material, loading, boundary condition and temperature; the results of the non-linear finite element analysis (NLFEA) were then verified against the corresponding experimental results in terms of the load-displacement response, and cracking pattern and distribution. The validated FE models were employed to predict the cracking pattern and response of similar statically indeterminate reinforced concrete beams under the same combined bending and shear when the beams are subjected to a uniform low temperature (-20 degrees C). The numerical results showed that the developed models are capable of predicting the strength and cracking pattern of the statically determinate and indeterminate reinforced concrete beams with temperature differentials at room and low temperature.