Computational Modeling of Conventionally Reinforced Concrete Coupling Beams

Coupling beams are structural elements used to connect two or more shear walls. The most common material used in the construction of coupling beam is reinforced concrete. The use of coupling beams along with shear walls require them to resist large shear forces, while possessing sufficient ductility to dissipate the energy produced due to the lateral loads. This study has been undertaken to produce a computational model to replicate the behavior of conventionally reinforced coupling beams subjected to cyclic loading. The model is developed in the finite element analysis software ABAQUS. The concrete damaged plasticity model was used to simulate the behavior of concrete. A calibration model using a cantilever beam was produced to generate key parameters in the model that are later adapted into modeling of two coupling beams with aspect ratios: 1.5 and 3.6. The geometrical, material, and loading values are adapted from experimental specimens reported in the literature, and the experimental results are then used to validate the computational models. The results like evolution of damage parameter and crack propagation from this study are intended to provide guidance on finite element modeling of conventionally reinforced concrete coupling beams under cyclic lateral loading.