Long-term deflection analysis of reinforced concrete beams including tension stiffening and time-dependent tensile strength degradation

A mathematical model is presented to predict the time-dependent response of reinforced concrete beams to given loading and environmental conditions. This model is based on the finite element approach in which a finite element is generally divided into a number of layers over the depth. The model takes account into non-linear effects such as tension stiffening effect due to cracking, creep and shrinkage. Comparisons are made with available measured deflections reported by others to assess the capability of the layered beam model. The calculated values of instantaneous and long-term deflection show good agreement with experimental values.