Towards improved modeling of steel-concrete composite wall elements

The Disturbed Stress Field Model, a smeared rotating crack model for reinforced concrete based on the Modified Compression Field Theory, is adapted to the analysis of double-skin steel-concrete wall elements. The computational model is then incorporated into a two-dimensional nonlinear finite element analysis algorithm. Verification studies are undertaken by modeling various test specimens, including panel elements subject to uniaxial compression, panel elements subjected to in-plane shear, and wall specimens subjected to reversed cyclic lateral displacements. In all cases, the analysis model is found to provide accurate calculations of structural load capacities, pre- and post-peak displacement responses, post-peak ductility, chronology of damage, and ultimate failure mode. Minor deficiencies are found in regards to the accurate portrayal of faceplate buckling and the effects of interfacial slip between the faceplates and the concrete. Other aspects of the modeling procedure that are in need of further research and development are also identified and discussed.

► Improved analysis of double skinned steel concrete composite containment walls. ► Smeared rotating crack concept applied in formulation of new analytical model. ► Model implemented into finite element program; numerically stable and robust. ► Models behavior of shear-critical elements with greater ease and improved accuracy. ► Accurate assessments of strength, deformation and failure mode of test specimens.