Modelling the Deflection of Reinforced Concrete Plates Using the Symplectic Method

Abstract

This work aims to predict the flexural behavior of reinforced concrete slabs by combining a smeared finite element model derived from fracture mechanics for the simulation of the decline in the flexural rigidity of the concrete, and the symplectic theory of elasticity, which governs the bending of the structural element in question. Appropriate modifications have been carried out on the smeared finite element model to better reflect the compressive behavior of concrete. The loading is incremental such that in each load step, concrete behavior is treated as an elastic problem, and the response of the concrete slabs determined using the symplectic method, which provides exact bending solutions to thin rectangular plates. For the validation of the model thus proposed, congruent cases of concrete slabs in literature are studied. Evaluation of the results achieved from the proposed model demonstrated relatively good predictability of reinforced concrete slabs in flexure.