Modeling of RC Frame Buildings for Progressive Collapse Analysis

Abstract

Abstract:The progressive collapse analysis of reinforced concrete (RC) moment-frame buildings under extreme loads is discussed from the perspective of modeling issues. A threat-independent approach or the alternate path method forms the basis of the simulations wherein the extreme event is modeled via column removal scenarios. Using a prototype RC frame building, issues and considerations in constitutive modeling of materials, options in modeling the structural elements and specification of gravity loads are discussed with the goal of achieving consistent models that can be used in collapse scenarios involving successive loss of loadbearing columns at the lowest level of the building. The role of the floor slabs in mobilizing catenary action and influencing the progressive collapse response is also highlighted. Finally, an energy-based approach for identifying the proximity to collapse of regular multi-story buildings is proposed.

Pull-Out Behaviour of Hooked End Steel Fibres Embedded in Ultra-high Performance Mortar with Various W/B Ratios

“…Nowadays one of the main challenges that the concrete industry facing; is how to improve the tensile strength and durability of mortar and concrete (Petrone et al 2016;Alberti et al 2014). The addition of randomised short fibres into mortar has shown to be capable of controlling crack progression as well as resisting tensile stresses (Adjrad et al 2016;Hwang et al 2016;El-Mal et al 2015;Sorensen et al 2014;Islam and Alam 2013a, b;Romualdi et al 1968).…”

Modelling of Stirrup Confinement Effects in RC Layered Beam Finite Elements Using a 3D Yield Criterion and Transversal Equilibrium Constraints

“…Stirrups exert lateral compressive stresses on concrete as it expands in the transversal directions due to loading, which improves the structural members strength and ductility. In several scenarios the ductility of the reinforced concrete members is of utmost importance, such as in progressive collapse (Menchel et al 2009;Hou and Song 2016;Petrone et al 2016;Rashidian et al 2016) and resistance against blast loading (Lim et al 2016;Codina et al 2016).…”

Seismic Performance of Exterior RC Beam–Column Joints Retrofitted using Various Retrofit Solutions

“…When such concrete buildings are subjected to earthquake loading, the beamcolumn joints (in particular, the corner and exterior joints) could fail in brittle manner, which might trigger partial or entire collapse of the buildings (Rashidian et al 2016;Petrone et al 2016). Thus, the rehabilitation of such beamcolumn joints is a prerequisite to resist seismic loads.…”