Experimental investigations of partially-damaged RC beams and columns

This paper summarises experimental investigations of undamaged and partially damaged reinforced-concrete beams and columns. The aim of the work was to establish and carry out experimental methods for determining the load-deformation behaviour and strength of these simple structural elements under varying levels of localised pre-damage (such as weakening or partial loss of concrete material). In particular, the effect of such partial/local damage on the overall behaviour and, crucially, its contribution to structural collapse, were also studied. There is little experimental evidence to validate predictions obtained from analysis or numerical modelling of partially damaged concrete members. Often, the ultimate capacity is the primary output of interest and it is usually determined using specimens that have no prior local damage. The present study produced data that led to a comparative study between the structural behaviour of both damaged and undamaged structural elements in order to help understand the effect of local damage and its contribution to structural collapse. The experimental results can also be used for future modelling and validation purposes.