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Computers and Concrete
  Volume 25, Number 4, April 2020 , pages 369-382
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12989/cac.2020.25.4.369
 


Finite element modelling of GFRP reinforced concrete beams
Joseph G. Stoner and Maria Anna Polak

 
Abstract
    This paper presents a discussion of the Finite Element Analysis (FEA) when applied for the analysis of concrete elements reinforced with glass fibre reinforced polymer (GFRP) bars. The purpose of such nonlinear FEA model development is to create a tool that can be used for numerical parametric studies which can be used to extend the existing (and limited) experiment database. The presented research focuses on the numerical analyses of concrete beams reinforced with GFRP longitudinal and shear reinforcements. FEA of concrete members reinforced with linear elastic brittle reinforcements (like GFRP) presents unique challenges when compared to the analysis of members reinforced with plastic (steel) reinforcements, which are discussed in the paper. Specifically, the behaviour and failure of GFRP reinforced members are strongly influenced by the compressive response of concrete and thus modelling of concrete behaviour is essential for proper analysis. FEA was performed using the commercial software ABAQUS. A damaged-plasticity model was utilized to simulate the concrete behaviour. The influence of tension, compression, dilatancy, mesh, and reinforcement modelling was studied to replicate experimental test data of beams previously tested at the University of Waterloo, Canada. Recommendations for the finite element modelling of beams reinforced with GFRP longitudinal and shear reinforcements are offered. The knowledge gained from this research allows for the development of a rational methodology for modelling GFRP reinforced concrete beams, which subsequently can be used for extensive parametric studies and the formation of informed recommendations to design standards.
 
Key Words
    fibre reinforced polymers (FRP); concrete; finite element analysis; ABAQUS; concrete damaged plasticity model; nonlinear finite element analysis
 
Address
Joseph G. Stoner: WSP Canada, 610 Chartwell Road, Suite 300, Oakville, Ontario, L6J 4A5, Canada
Maria Anna Polak: Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Waterloo, 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, Ontario, N2L 3G1, Canada
 

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