Lattice Modelling of a Substandard RC Frame Considering Localization Issues

DEMİRTAŞ Y., Yurdakul Ö., Avşar Ö.

2025 International Association for Bridge and Structural Engineering, IABSE 2025, Ghent, Belgium, 27 - 29 August 2025, pp.1247-1254, (Full Text) identifier

  • Publication Type: Conference Paper / Full Text
  • City: Ghent
  • Country: Belgium
  • Page Numbers: pp.1247-1254
  • Keywords: crack band theory, lattice modelling, pseudo-dynamic, seismic response, strain adjustment, substandard, truss analogy
  • Uşak University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Strain adjustment is used in quasi-brittle materials to mitigate the negative impacts of mesh size and strain localization in numerical modelling strategies. For this purpose, a nonlinear lattice modelling method is combined with crack-band theory in OpenSees. The lattice model employs the truss analogy, representing the concrete and reinforcing elements in critical regions of a substandard RC frame as truss elements. The modelling technique was confirmed by comparing the simulated results to the experimentally obtained responses of an insufficiently detailed 3-story 3-bay substandard reinforced concrete frame subjected to a pseudo-dynamic testing procedure. Four experimental frame models were created with lattice structure in beam-column joint and two mesh sizes, one fully and one partially including the plastic hinge region of the columns. The model accuracy is sufficient to reproduce the substandard RC frame's experimental response.