Triaxial test results of high-strength concrete subjected to cyclic loading

Abstract

High-strength concrete (HSC) has highly desirable structural engineering properties, which can lead to significant cost savings in heavily loaded concrete structures. However, its use is limited by a concern regarding an increased brittleness compared to normal strength concrete (NSC), especially under complex multi-axial loading conditions. The issue of ductility is extremely important in structures subjected to earthquake loading conditions. In order to determine the lateral confinement required for a given level of ductility, the relationship between axial stress and lateral strain of confined HSC needs to be established. This paper describes a testing programme carried out to obtain the relationships between axial stress, axial strain and lateral strain for HSC under cyclic loading and subjected to constant lateral confining pressures. Compressive strengths of concrete tested were 40, 60, 80 and 100 MPa. Uniform confining pressures applied were 4, 8 and 12 MPa. The experimental results are presented and the effects of cyclic loading and confinement on the constitutive behaviour of HSC are described.

Cyclic testing of low-strength plain concrete

“…In a survey of the literature conducted by the author, the minimum concrete strength used in experimental and analytical studies was about 20 MPa (Ahmad and Shah, 1982;Aslani and Jowkarmeimandi, 2012;Bahn and Hsu, 1998;Barr and Lee, 2003;Buyukozturk and Tseng, 1984;Chidiac et al, 2013;Desayi et al, 1978;Erdil et al, 2013;Hognestad, 1951;Hsu and Hsu, 1994;Karsan and Jirsa, 1969;Kent and Park, 1971;Lokuge et al, 2003;Maher and Darwin, 1982;Mander et al, 1988;Mansour and Hsu, 2005; Martinez-Rueda and Elnashai, 1997; Mendis et al, 2000;Okamoto et al, 1976;Palermo and Vecchio, 2003;Popovics, 1973;Reinhart et al, 1986;Sakai and Kawashima, 2006;Sargin et al, 1971;Scott et al, 1982;Sheikh and Uzumeri, 1982;Sima et al, 2008;Sinha et al, 1964;Spooner and Dougill, 1975;Taliercio and Gobbit, 1997;Tanigawa and Uchida, 1979;Tasnimi, 2004;Thorenfeldt et al, 1987;Tsai, 1988;Vallenas et al, 1977;Vintzileou and Malliri, 1999;Xiao et al, 2008;Yankelevsky and Reinhardt, 1987;Yong et al, 1989). However, the concrete strength in existing structures is typically between 5 MPa and 15 MPa ...…”