Changing in the stress-strain state with non-uniform damaged reinforced concrete

This article considers the influence of local one-sided damage on the stress-strain state of a reinforced concrete beam. The research is aimed at analyzing changes in load-bearing capacity, deformations, and potential failure mechanisms caused by unilateral damage. Reinforced concrete is one of the most widespread and important construction materials used in various engineering structures, from residential and public buildings to bridges and other infrastructure facilities. However, despite its high durability and significant reliability, reinforced concrete may undergo substantial damage under the influence of various aggressive environmental factors [1]. All these factors lead to increased deformations, a decrease in load-bearing capacity, and may result in the failure of the reinforced concrete structure. Particular attention should be paid to defects caused by unilateral moisture exposure [2], when moisture penetrates from only one side of the structure, leading to an unpredictable stress-strain behavior during design and operation. As a result, concrete spalling may occur [3]. Unilateral moisture exposure can have various effects on different types of structures depending on their dimensions, loads, and operating conditions. To study such damage, a special experimental method was developed to simulate localized damage on the side surface of reinforced concrete beams. Within the framework of the study, an analysis was carried out between theoretical modeling using the finite element method in the LIRA software and the experimental results. The Digital Image Correlation (DIC) method was applied, which allows for the detection of cracks and deformations[4]. The DIC method provides high accuracy in tracking the distribution of deformations on the surface of a specimen in real time, which makes it extremely useful for studying the development of damage and its impact on the load-bearing capacity of reinforced concrete structures [5]. The obtained research results make it possible not only to improve the understanding of the behavior of reinforced concrete elements under conditions of one-sided wetting but also to significantly increase the efficiency of structural health monitoring. This will allow potential problems to be detected more promptly [6] and ensure the necessary preventive measures to avoid severe damage, thereby improving the safety and durability of structures during operation.