Modulus of Elasticity of Concrete in Design Codes and Empirical Models: Analytical Study

Abstract

The modulus of elasticity (MOE) is a key parameter in RC design. It represents the stress–strain relationship in the elastic range and is used in the prediction of deflection. Out-of-range estimations for the MOE in the existing codes of practice profoundly affected the design and performance of the concrete structures. This study included (1) the evaluation and comparison of the existing analytical models to estimate the MOE in normal strength concrete and (2) the proposal and verification of a new model. In addition, a wide range of experimental databases and empirical models, used to estimate the MOE from compressive strength and the density of concrete, were evaluated for verification of the proposed model. The results showed underestimation of the MOE for conventional concrete in the majority of the existing models. Also, considering the consistency between the density and mechanical properties of concrete, the predicted MOE values from the model, including the density effect, were more compatible with the experimental results than those from the other models presented.