Prediction of the performance of reinforced concrete elements under monotonic and cyclic lateral loading

Introduction: The nonlinear behavior of reinforced concrete elements under monotonic and cyclic loading is one of the most important research topics in seismic regions. Over the past 30 years, several experimental investigations have been conducted with the aim of better understanding the behavior of reinforced concrete elements and determining the various parameters influencing this behavior. Purpose of the study: The present research investigates this behavior and aims to develop an interactive computer program designed for use within the Windows environment. Methods: Several material models (confined/unconfined concrete and reinforcing steel), as well as hysteresis laws, are employed in an analytical approach using the fiber element. For each specimen, geometric characteristics, material models, plastic hinge locations, axial loads, and the history of corresponding horizontal displacements were input into the program. Numerical predictions are validated against experimental results from diverse studies. Results: Convergence analysis using experimental data demonstrated good agreement between numerical and experimental results, particularly in hysteresis behavior, force-displacement envelope curves, maximum strength, initial stiffness, stiffness degradation, and cumulative energy dissipation. The findings underscore the efficacy of the developed program in accurately predicting the nonlinear behavior of reinforced concrete elements. The developed program provides a reliable tool for predicting the nonlinear behavior of reinforced concrete elements under cyclic loading, validated through convergence analysis with experimental data.