Finite Element Analysis of Pre-Stressed Ultra High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) Girders

Abstract

This paper presents a comprehensive finite element analysis (FEA) of pre-stressed Ultra High-Performance Concrete (UHPC) girders, showcasing intricate structural behaviors under various loading conditions. Utilizing advanced finite element modeling techniques, the study accurately simulates the flexural response of UHPC girders, integrating experimental results from large-scale laboratory tests conducted by researchers at the Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center. This paper shows the effectiveness of simulating pre-stressing forces via initial equivalent temperature load with relatively accurate stress and strain predictions. The paper also delves into the moment–deflection relationships at critical stages, such as first concrete crack appearance, yielding, and strain localization, to capture the non-linear behavior of UHPC girders under pre-stressed conditions. Additionally, crack propagations were characterized by investigating the damage in tension (DAMAGET) plots. In summary, the results of the finite element model agree well with the experimental observations. Moreover, this study not only demonstrates the effectiveness of FEA in accurately simulating the complex structural behaviors of UHPC girders but also highlights its broader applicability to the design and analysis of other girder types, offering valuable insights compared to ordinary concrete beams.

Keywords

• finite element analysis (FEA)
• Ultra High-Performance Concrete (UHPC)
• pre-stressed girders
• moment–deflection relationship
• crack propagation
• concrete damage plasticity (CDP) material model