Finite element implementation of punching shear behaviors in shear-reinforced flat slabs

Punching shear reinforcement systems such as studs and stirrups are used to improve the punching shear strength of flat slabs. A three dimensional finite element model (FEM) is developed through Ansys 10 computer software, to carry out the nonlinear analysis of 16 flat-slab models with and without punching shear reinforcement. Several important parameters are incorporated in the analysis, namely the column size, the slab thickness and the punching shear reinforcement system in order to study their effects on the flat slab behavior. A parametric study was carried out to look at the variables that can mainly affect the mechanical behaviors of the model such as the change of loading types and positions and slab with openings. Good correlation is observed between the results of the proposed model and other experimental one, resulting in its capability of capturing the fracture of flat slab under punching shear behavior to an acceptable accuracy.