FINITE ELEMENT MODELLING OF BOND IN REIFORCED CONCRETE ELEMENTS.

Numerical modelling of bond is a challenging due to a number of physical and mechanical phenomena arising from interaction of ribbed reinforcing bars and concrete. In present paper 2D and 3D approaches for bond analysis are compared in terms of global load-displacement behaviour of RC element, formation of microcracks and deterioration of concrete in front of the ribs. Nonlinear Finite element software ATENA was used for both 2D and 3D analysis. It was shown that differences between two approaches are minor and simpler 2D models may be used for the analysis of bond in RC structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]