Failure assessment of lightly reinforced floor slabs. II: Analytical studies

Abstract

This paper describes numerical and analytical assessments of the ultimate response of floor slabs. Simplified analytical models and finite-element simulations are described and validated against the experimental results presented in the companion paper. The simplified analytical model accounts for membrane action and the underlying mechanisms related to failure of floor slabs by either reinforcement rupture or compressive crushing of the concrete. In this respect, the significant influence of material properties, including bond strength, is considered in the model and described in detail. A detailed nonlinear finite-element model is also employed to provide further verification of the simplified approach and to facilitate further understanding of the overall response. The results and observations of this study offer an insight into the key factors that govern the ultimate behavior. Finally, the models are applied under elevated temperature conditions to demonstrate their general applicability and reliability.