Nonlinear finite element analysis of torsional R/C hybrid deep T-beam with opening

A nonlinear finite element analysis of R/C hybrid deep T-beam with web opening subjected to pure torsion is presented. Hexahedral 8-nodes and space truss element were used for modeling concrete and reinforcement. The reinforcement was assumed perfectly bonded to the corresponding nodes of the concrete element. The constitutive relations for concrete and reinforcement are based on the modified field theory and elastic perfectly plastic. The smear crack approach was adopted for modeling the crack. The torque-twist angle relationship curve based on the finite element analysis was compared to the experimental results. The comparison shows that the curve of torque-twist angle predicted by the nonlinear finite element analysis is linear before cracking and close to the experimental result. After cracking, the curve becomes nonlinear and stiffer compared to the experimental result.