Computational Structural Concrete 2e - Theory and Applications

Concrete is the most used building material due to its advantages, but its sustainability has to move into focus. Reinforced concrete structures have to be designed expending less material, and computational methods such as Finite Element Method (FEM) provide essential tools to reach this goal. This allows for a more realistic estimation of ultimate and serviceability limit states, but sophisticated computational methods are usually provided as black boxes. The book aims to make the mechanisms of reinforced concrete transparent from the perspective of numerical methods, and appropriate methods are described for beams, plates, slabs, and shells regarding quasi-statics and dynamics. State of the art concrete material models are presented, and theory is illustrated by a variety of examples.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 448 pages
Publication date: 05 October 2022
Publisher: Wilhelm Ernst & Sohn Verlag fur Architektur und technische Wissenschaften

Due to its numerous advantages, concrete is the most widely used building material in the world. It is versatile, cost-effective, and readily available in all regions. When reinforced with steel, it offers a vast range of properties that can be tailored to suit a wide variety of applications. As a result, concrete has emerged as the dominant building material of the 20th century. To maintain its position as the preferred material in the 21st century, it is crucial to prioritize sustainability. Reinforced concrete structures must be designed with the aim of using less material while maximizing their load-carrying capacity. Computational methods such as the Finite Element Method (FEM) play a vital role in achieving this goal. By combining experimental validation with computational analysis, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms behind reinforced concrete's load-bearing behavior. This allows for more accurate estimation of ultimate and serviceability limit states, leading to improved utilization of construction materials and a wider range of innovative structural designs.

However, it is important to note that sophisticated computational methods often come with a certain level of complexity. Users may find it challenging to understand the underlying processes and assumptions made by these methods. This can lead to misinterpretations and potentially invalid results, especially when dealing with nonlinear problems. Reinforced concrete, as a composite material, exhibits nonlinear behavior in its limit states due to the interaction between concrete and reinforcement through bond and the nonlinear properties of the individual components. Cracking is a common phenomenon in reinforced concrete structures.

The primary objective of this book is to provide a clear and comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms behind reinforced concrete from the perspective of numerical methods. By demystifying the black boxes commonly associated with computational analysis, the book aims to make reinforced concrete more transparent and accessible to a broader audience. This includes professionals, researchers, and students interested in the field of structural engineering.

The book is organized into several chapters, each focusing on a specific aspect of reinforced concrete mechanics. The first chapter provides an introduction to reinforced concrete and its historical development. It discusses the basic principles of concrete, reinforcement, and the concept of composite materials. The second chapter focuses on the modeling of reinforced concrete structures using FEM. It covers the principles of finite element analysis, the selection of appropriate element types, and the setup of numerical models. The third chapter discusses the analysis of reinforced concrete structures under various loading conditions, including static, dynamic, and seismic loads. It covers the development of stress and strain models, the calculation of forces and moments, and the evaluation of structural performance. The fourth chapter explores the design of reinforced concrete structures considering sustainability and life-cycle assessment. It covers the selection of eco-friendly materials, the optimization of structural dimensions, and the consideration of durability and maintenance requirements. The fifth chapter discusses the experimental validation of reinforced concrete structures. It covers the design and execution of experimental tests, the analysis of test results, and the comparison with computational predictions. The final chapter summarizes the key findings and conclusions of the book.

Throughout the text, real-world examples and case studies are used to illustrate the practical applications of reinforced concrete mechanics. These examples help to reinforce the theoretical concepts and provide a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with reinforced concrete construction.

In conclusion, reinforced concrete is a versatile and sustainable building material that has played a significant role in shaping the built environment of the 20th century. To maintain its position as a preferred material in the 21st century, it is crucial to prioritize sustainability, enhance computational methods, and promote a deeper understanding of reinforced concrete's mechanics. This book aims to contribute to this effort by providing a comprehensive and accessible guide to reinforced concrete mechanics from the perspective of numerical methods.

Weight: 842g
Dimension: 244 x 171 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783433033104