Numerical Models to Predict the Collapse Behavior of RC Columns and Frames

Blind analysis contests for predicting the results of several collapse tests on RC frame structure, were carried out by the Collapse Prevention Committee of Architectural Society of China in 2011. This paper presents the adopted numerical models for the collapse simulations of four RC column tests and one RC frame test.

The columns and beams in the RC frame were modeled by beam elements using the fiber model of THUFIBER program. The confined effect of the stirrups in the square RC column was taken into account by using the backbone curve of confined concrete. The methods to determine the key parameters of the adopted model were introduced.

The prediction results were compared with the test results, and the adopted models exhibited good predictions for the general behavior of both the RC columns and frame. The model was proposed for investigating the collapse mechanism of RC frames.