Finite Element Analysis of Reinforced Concrete Slab-Rectangular Column Connections Using ABAQUS

Abstract

Rectangular columns used in flat-slab structures run the risk of punching shear damage due to stress concentrations, especially when bending moments and vertical forces act together at the connections. Using the finite element analysis method, the existing experiments are numerically simulated using the 3D modeling software ABAQUS, and describe the cracking behavior of concrete using the concrete damaged plasticity model. The accuracy of the numerical simulation was calibrated by load–displacement curves and crack patterns using the experimental results. The study of the model was set up with different moment-to-shear ratios and outputs the trend of the average shear stress on the eccentric force side of the slab. The moment transfer coefficients are derived through the equation of ACI-318 and compared with the code values. A safe range of side length ratios is proposed to reduce the risk of punching shear damage from the use of rectangular columns. This provides a reference for practical design, but more experiments are needed to support the proposed recommendations.