Modeling of symmetrically and asymmetrically loaded reinforced concrete slabs

Abstract

For the assessment of existing structures and the design of new structures, it is important to have a good understanding of the flow of forces, here applied to reinforced concrete solid slabs. Two analytical methods are used: finite element models with 3D solid elements and a plasticity-based model that is suitable for hand calculations, the Modified Bond Model. The slabs that are modeled are half-scale models of reinforced concrete solid slab bridges. As the Eurocode live load model prescribes more heavily loaded trucks in the first lane, the load model is asymmetric. For the finite element models, limited use is made of the redistribution capacity of the slab. For the Modified Bond Model, the influence of torsion and the edge effect need to be taken into account. The results of these studies improve the current state-of-the-art for analysis and design of reinforced concrete slabs.