History of the Development of Analytical Models of Cracking of Restrained Walls on a Given Edge Since 1968

Abstract

This research paper presents and comments on analytical models for calculating the widths of cracks formed as a result of imposed deformations generating tensile stresses in reinforced concrete base-restrained members. This issue regarding the mechanics of concrete structures has been presented on the basis of calculation models since 1968. In accordance with the current regulations of the European standard, the mechanics of the cracking of base-restrained members have been presented in a very simplified way, which was justified by a limited number of research studies performed on such members as well as in a few subject publications. The main purpose of this work was to present especially those models that had the greatest practical significance within a specific period of time or formed the basis for further studies of other authors. In addition, future trends in the development of computational tools are presented. The chronologically presented development of design ideas, which takes into account varying degrees of advancement of the mechanics of cracking due to the distinctly different design consequences, is a valuable source of information and an inspiration for subsequent researchers. In the second part of the paper, a few of the most important issues connected with the calculation of the crack width in base-restrained walls are presented. It is shown that currently, on the basis of the up-to-date knowledge, there are possibilities to create more complementary standard guidelines, which is already taking place in the case of European guidelines.