The equivalent reinforced concrete model for simulating the behavior of shear walls under dynamic loading

A new simplified modeling strategy for simulating the non-linear behavior of reinforced concrete structures submitted to severe dynamic shear is presented. The Equivalent Reinforced Concrete model (ERC) uses lattice meshes for concrete and reinforcement bars and uniaxial constitutive laws based on the principles of continuum damage mechanics and plasticity. Verification is provided through comparisons with the results of the NUPEC experimental program. ERC is a simplified method that intends to save computer time and to allow for parametrical studies. The proposed lattice model is promising and could be extended to 3D calculations or to simulate the behavior of plastic zones.