Size effects in structural concrete: A numerical experiment
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Kotsovos, MD
(EN)
Pavlovic, MN
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The paper forms part of a programme of investigation into the causes of size effects in structural-concrete behaviour. It is postulated that one of the causes of size effects is load-induced non-symmetrical cracking which is inherent in concrete due to its heterogeneous nature. The validity of this postulate is supported by the results-presently reported-of non-linear finite element analysis, in which the model used to describe cracking is capable of inducing non-symmetrical cracking in symmetrical structural members subjected to symmetrical loading. The results demonstrate that the package used can also provide a close fit to experimental values and, moreover, that the presence of stirrups (designed so as to prevent shear failure) is sufficient to diminish the effect of non-symmetrical cracking and hence eliminate size effects. (C) 1997 Civil-Comp Ltd and Elsevier Science Ltd.
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