| Three-dimensional finite element models of prestressed concrete hollow core slabs and I-shaped concrete beams are developed to study their shear behavior. Nonlinear finite element analysis is performed using the ANSYS 2003 software. SOLID65, LINK8, and SOLID45 elements are selected to represent the behavior of concrete, discrete reinforcing steel bars and steel plate, respectively. By applying transverse concentrated load the load-deflection response of hollow core slabs and I-shaped concrete beams derived from the numerical models are presented. These results are then compared with the data obtained from physical tests to verify the validity and accuracy of the numerical models. Comparisons have been made among the shear strength of hollow core slabs and I-shaped beams obtained from the numerical models, physical tests and ACI 318 code. It has been found that in most cases, the results from the numerical simulation agree well with those from the physical tests. Also, results show that while the ACI 318 code can well predict the shear strength of I-shaped concrete beams, its prediction on the shear strength of prestressed concrete hollow core slabs is much more conservative when compared with those obtained from the numerical simulation and the physical tests. |
