Cracking Response of RC Members Subjected to Uniaxial Tension

Abstract

A new cracking theory is presented for the analysis of reinforced concrete (RC) members subjected to uniaxial tension. The theory is developed on the basis of the (actual) nonlinear bond stress‐slip relationship and of the extensive study of physical behavior. For a comparatively lightly loaded member (CLLM) concrete strain equals steel strain in a central portion of the RC member. For a comparatively heavily loaded member (CHLM) concrete strain is lower than steel strain everywhere in the RC member and attains its maximum value at mid‐span. In a CLLM, the first primary crack can occur at any section located in the aforementioned central portion; in a CHLM, the first primary crack can occur only at the symmetry section. After the first cracking any subsequent crack can form only at the symmetry section, contrary to the current opinion. The expressions for predicting the primary crack formation, crack spacing and width, as well as the tension‐stiffening effect are provided. The accuracy of the analytical solution is shown by comparison with available experimental results. The complete agreement shows the reliability of the cracking theory presented.