Finite element simulation of patch repaired reinforced concrete beams

Abstract

This paper presents information on the factors that influence the performance of patch repair in reinforced concrete beams, namely the in-service exposure conditions, compatibility requirements and construction practices. The significance of property mismatch between the repair material and the existing reinforced concrete structure is illustrated through an analytical study involving finite element analysis that determines the performance of a patch repair. The ADINA finite element software is used in this study to simulate the behavior of the four experimental beams. The beams were 1200mm long with a cross section of 100mm x 150mm with defects size of 500x100x30 mm. Three of the beams were repaired using either the same concrete material, mortar, or fast rapid material and one beam remained defective. Element types used in the models, constitutive equations and assumptions, loading and boundary conditions, and convergence criteria are thoroughly discussed in the paper. It is concluded that analytical methods could be an effective tool in the proper selection of repair material and techniques.