A new finite element for reinforced concrete beam analyses including shear

A new finite element is introduced to closely model the behaviour of reinforced concrete members. Fewer elements can be used to achieve accurate predictions within a reasonable amount of time. While the rotational degree of freedom is not explicitly defined in the element, the transition problem between different element types is automatically resolved. The derivation and the subsequent improvements based on physical principals are detailed herein. For verification, a program is written to represent the mathematical model and perform analyses for numerical comparisons. Predications are excellent for member responses compared to Response-2000 and for failure loads compared against the CSA code and certain experimental data. The model is currently valid for members with shear span over depth ratios greater than two. However, a shear convergence problem has been encountered, therefore further investigations are needed. This is a step toward the consistent nonlinear frame analyses including shear for reinforced concrete structures.