Product Overview:
In this tutorial, we explore the simulation of Reinforced Concrete (RC) columns made from Ultra-High Performance Fiber Reinforced Concrete (UHP-FRC) subjected to compression loads using Abaqus. UHP-FRC, recognized as the next evolution in concrete technology, exhibits outstanding mechanical properties, including a compressive strength exceeding 150 MPa, a tensile strength ranging from 8 to 12 MPa, and significantly higher fracture energy compared to conventional concrete. In this simulation, the UHP-FRC column is modeled as a three-dimensional solid element, while the reinforcing bars and strips are represented as three-dimensional wire components.

To model the nonlinear behavior of the UHP-FRC, we utilize the built-in Concrete Damage Plasticity (CDP) model available in Abaqus. The CDP model is specifically designed to simulate the behavior of both plain and reinforced concrete under various loading scenarios. It is chosen for its unique capabilities, including the ability to define separate yield strengths, strain rates, and damage parameters for tension and compression. Furthermore, the CDP model offers a sophisticated representation of different concrete types through a set of adjustable parameters that can be empirically determined. These parameters primarily define the yield surface and flow rule within the three-dimensional stress space, enabling accurate predictions of damage during compression tests.

For this analysis, a general static step is appropriate, and surface-to-surface interaction with defined contact properties is established between the rigid bodies and the concrete column. The reinforcing bars and strips are embedded within the concrete matrix. A fixed boundary condition is applied to the bottom rigid body, while a displacement with an amplitude is applied to the top rigid body, ensuring accurate simulation of load conditions. Additionally, the quality of the mesh significantly influences the accuracy of the results.

Upon completion of the simulation, various results—including stress, strain, tensile damage, compression damage, and force-displacement diagrams—are available for evaluation.