Numerical Evaluation on Impact Behavior of Seismically and Non-Seismically Detailed RC Beams

Abstract

There is an increasing tendency among structural engineers to consider impulsive loads, such as impact and blast loads, in the design of RC members since these loads acting for short time intervals may lead to severe damage to structural elements or even collapse the whole structure. In contrast, the traditional design primarily considers the static loads and the dynamic loads like earthquake and wind effects, disregarding impulsive loads. At this point, it is critical to determine the dynamic response and failure characteristics of existing RC beams designed without special precautions against impact effects since these beams may expose impact load in their service period. The present study intends to reveal the impact resistance and general impact behavior of seismically and non-seismically designed RC beams. For this purpose, an improved finite element code, including the erosion algorithm and considering the strain-rate effects for concrete and steel material, has been established to evaluate the impact response of RC beams, and it has been verified with experimental data provided by a previously published study. Then, using verified finite element code, a parametric study was conducted where the effects of the shear reinforcement ratio, the application point of impact load, and the applied input impact energy on the dynamic responses and damage patterns of the RC beams. Results from numerical analysis were evaluated in detail, and interpretations related to the impact behavior of seismically and non-seismically designed RC beams were made.