Modeling the response of ultra high performance fiber reinforced concrete beams

A finite element based numerical model is applied for tracing the response of Ultra High Performance Fiber Reinforced Concrete (UHPFRC) beams under the effects of flexural and shear dominant loading. The numerical model, developed in ABAQUS, accounts for superior strength properties of UHPFRC, including high compressive and tensile strength, and stain hardening effect in tension. The developed model can generate various response parameters including flexural and shear capacity, as well as load deflection response and propagation of cracks. Predictions from the model are compared with measured test data on UHPFRC beams, tested under dominant shear and flexure loading. The comparisons indicate that the model is capable of capturing the response of UHPFRC beams in the entire range of loading from preloading stage to failure through crushing of concrete or rupture of rebars.