Component modeling and acceptance criteria

Accurate modeling of the behavior of reinforced concrete components is necessary for obtaining reliable predictions of global response and local demands. This chapter provides context and depth to enable the engineer to exercise judgment in making reasonable modeling assumptions and in evaluating results of such models. Post-processing is needed to establish performance relative to acceptance criteria, which are usually specified in terms of plastic rotations at discrete plastic hinges. Acceptance criteria values must be regarded with a degree of uncertainty, and can be expected to improve as nonlinear assessment becomes more common. Since most experiments are conducted quasi-statically, the question of strain rate effect is sometimes raised. Reinforced concrete members exhibit higher stiffness and strength when loaded rapidly. The inelastic response of beams, columns, and walls is often represented using elements based either on lumped plasticity or distributed plasticity formulations.