Numerical modeling of torsion in rectangular reinforced concrete slabs

Abstract The research analyzes the feasibility of employing the damage plasticity model - CDP model - in the modeling of reinforced concrete slabs subjected to torsion. To that goal, finite element models were developed using the commercial software Abaqus, which has the CDP model implemented. The numerical models were built to represent existing experimental tests. A Python script was also developed to automate the generation of material parameters required for the CDP model. The simulation model created effectively captured the global response in terms of the force x displacement curve of the model under investigation. Furthermore, the average numerical deformations in the middle plane of the model's thickness were very similar to the experimental ones in the x and y directions, with an error of no more than 10% for a given loading stage, in which the model already had cracks. Given the intricacy of the behavior of reinforced concrete slabs under pure torsion, this fact emphasizes the efficacy of finite element simulation of the problem. Alternatively, since the energy regularization strategies applied in the formulation of the CDP model lead to varying crack paths depending on the orientation of the finite element mesh, careful consideration should be given to mesh size and orientation. This is especially crucial when accurate details of the cracking and failure profile are required in complex concrete structural analyses.