Nonlinear static and dynamic finite element analyses of reinforced concrete shear walls using PARC_CL crack model

In this paper the PARC_CL1.1 model (implemented in the user subroutine UMAT.for in Abaqus Code) is presented and applied to the non-linear finite element analyses (NLFEA) of reinforced concrete (RC) shear walls tested, by means of pseudo dynamic test (PSD), at the European Laboratory for Structural Assessment (ELSA, Joint Research Centre) within the project SAFE [1]-[4]. These experimental tests are included as part of CASH benchmark, which is an international benchmarking program organised under an initiative of the OEDC-NEA (Nuclear Energy Agency). The main objective of CASH benchmark is to evaluate the reliability of predictive analysis tools and methods as well engineering practice know how to assess the seismic capacity of reinforced concrete shear walls to withstand strong earthquakes considered for beyond design situation. The PARC_CL1.1 crack model is the extension of the previous PARC model [5]-[6], and allows to consider cyclic loads and plastic deformations in the unloading phase. The PARC_CL1.1 model is based on a fixed crack approach and smeared approach for the reinforcements. The shear walls tested at the ELSA have been used to validate the proposed PARC_CL1.1 crack model; the shear walls have been modeled using multi-layered shell elements and NLFEA have been carried out considering several loading condition (static pushover, cyclic and dynamic).