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STRENGTH PREDICTION OF CONCRETE BOTTLE-SHAPED STRUTS

For better strength prediction using strut-and-tie models (STM), it is essential to use reliable strength parameters of the model components; e.g., struts, ties, and nodes. Among all the elements of the STM, the strength of the bottle-shaped struts is not well quantified. The purpose of this study is to develop more accurate formulas for the calculation of the effectiveness factors for 2D and 3D bottle-shaped struts that are unreinforced, reinforced with minimum reinforcement, or reinforced with sufficient transverse reinforcement. The nonlinear finite element analysis, with the aid of the software ABAQUS, has been utilized in this study, which has been verified against experimental tests. The study has been carried out for grades of concrete varying from 20 to 100 MPa, and for bearing plate to width ratio varying from 0.1 to 0.9. The obtained formulas for the effectiveness factor are functions of the concrete strength, which is not the case with the ACI 318-19 provisions. These formulas have been verified against experimental tests and have been compared with the ACI 318-19 provisions. The predictions based on these formulas are always on the safe side and are more accurate than those based on the ACI 318-19 provisions.