Finite-Element Method to Predict Reinforcing Bar Buckling in RC Structures

Abstract

Buckling of longitudinal bars is a common form of damage in reinforced concrete (RC) structures subjected to earthquakes. Previous research has illustrated the impact of cyclic loading on bar buckling which often occurs upon the reversal from a tensile loading cycle. This paper presents a finite-element method to predict reinforcement buckling under seismic loading that also captures the details of the buckling mechanism. This method combines a fiber-based model to simulate the reinforced concrete member itself and an independent finite-element model of the local plastic hinge region. The strain demands in the plastic hinge region are determined from the fiber-based model of the overall structure subjected to the ground motion. The strain history is then imposed on the finite element bar buckling model to predict the localized behavior. Comparisons between the model performance and experimental observations are shown to assess the accuracy of the proposed method.