Energy Dissipation in RC Beams Under Cyclic Load

Abstract

The development and application of an “energy dissipation index” to characterize reinforced concrete beams under cyclic load is described. The index is designed to provide an objective measure of the response of beams with different geometries and reinforcement ratios subjected to severe cyclic loading. The effects of flexural reinforcement, transverse reinforcement, concrete strength, and load history are considered. The index is used to evaluate the results of five major experimental investigations. The energy dissipation index may be applied to both research and design. The analysis of the experimental work shows that to improve the cyclic performance of reinforced concrete beams, it is more efficient to decrease the shear stress, by increasing the beam width, than to increase the transverse reinforcement. The analysis also indicates that increasing the ratio of positive to negative reinforcement may not markedly improve the cyclic performance of a beam. Recommendations are made for the design of reinforced concrete beams that may be subjected to severe cyclic loading.