Development of modelling strategies for two-way RC slabs

• Structural behaviour of two-way RC slab can be reflected in NLFEA.
• NLFEA of two-way RC slab is significantly affected by modelling parameters.
• Modelling parameters have influence on capacity, crack pattern and load distribution.
• Load distribution can be considerably influenced by stiffness of support.

Analyses of tested two-way reinforced concrete (RC) slabs were carried out with varying modelling choices to develop better modelling strategies. The aim was to study how accurately the response of a slab subjected to bending could be predicted with nonlinear finite element (FE) analysis using three-dimensional (3D) continuum elements, and how the modelling choices might influence the analysis results. The load-carrying capacity, load–deflection response, crack pattern and reaction-force distribution of the two-way slab studied were compared to experimental data available. The influence of several modelling parameters was investigated, including geometric nonlinearity, element properties, concrete model, reinforcement model and boundary condition. The results show the possibility of accurately reflecting the experimental results concerning load-carrying capacity, load–deflection response and crack pattern giving proper modelling choices. Moreover, the reaction force distribution was found to be highly influenced by the stiffness of the supports.