Abstract

Present paper analyzes the capabilities of coarse mesh models in reproducing the nonlinear cyclic shear response of reinforced concrete members. Different finite elements types and mesh sizes are tested, determining the most optimal configurations in terms of precision-computational demand in order to be used for creating detailed models of buildings. In a first stage, solid and shell elements models are evaluated through the reproduction of the cyclic response of a coupling beam laboratory test reported in the bibliography. The influence of main modelling considerations and parameters like confinement, reinforcement adherence, and the influence of lateral cracking in compression strength is analyzed by comparing the overall response and energy dissipation. Most satisfactory modelling strategies and parameters are later used to reproduce the cyclic response of the complex wall-coupling beam system of the instrumented CCUT building. The influence of using different mesh type configurations, and of adopting different considerations for the main modelling parameters is also analyzed. Finally, conclusions about the achievable precision, limitations, modelling parameters influence, and best configurations for the use of coarse mesh models in reproducing the cyclic shear response of reinforced concrete members are presented and discussed.