Finite element analysis of reinforced concrete elements in a cracked state

Abstract The finite element analysis of reinforced concrete beams in a cracked state is presented. The modeling of moment-curvature relationships is analyzed and the different definitions of the effective or mean inertia are unified by means of the Tension Stiffening Function. An exact methodology to evaluate the stiffness matrix and the load vector of a reinforced concrete element with some regions in a cracked state is developed. An efficient iterative procedure for analyzing a statically indeterminate structure is illustrated. The validity of the procedure has been tested by means of a comparison between experimental and theoretical results on two-span continuous reinforced concrete beams.