A numerical model for concrete slabs under fire conditions.

Abstract

A numerical model for the behavior of concrete slabs in a fire is described. This model consists of a shell finite element, a damage constitutive model for concrete with steel reinforcement and the consideration of heat transfer through the thickness of the slab. An improved damage constitutive model for concrete at elevated temperatures has been implemented considering compressive and tensile behavior through an orthotropic compliance theory. The damage in compression is based on the concrete stress–strain relationships presented by the European Committee for Standardization. Several calculations have been performed to validate the improved model. The comparison with experimental tests and numerical results confirm the validity of the approach for reinforced concrete slabs subjected to large transverse displacement.