Three-dimensional nonlinear finite-element modelling of the flexural behaviour of reinforced concrete beams

This paper presents a numerical investigation on the flexural behaviour of reinforced concrete beams under four-point bending. Three-dimensional nonlinear finite-element models were developed using ABAQUS/Explicit. The 'concrete damaged plasticity' model was used to model the concrete behaviour. Two different types of elements and meshes were employed, a structured mesh of linear hexahedral elements with incompatible modes and an unstructured mesh of linear tetrahedral elements, to establish their effects on the computed predictions. Modelling is validated by comparing numerical results in terms of load-deflection curves with test results reported in the literature. Good agreement was found in general but with some differences between the chosen elements and meshes. Tensile damage plots are also reported, showing some mesh bias when hexahedral elements are used.