Probabilistic fiber element modeling of reinforced concrete columns

A computational tool based on a stochastic fiber element model is developed in this study. This tool can be utilized for probabilistic evaluation of reinforced concrete (RC) columns considering spatial variability of material and geometrical properties of a structure. The stochastic fiber element model is developed by combining a conventional fiber element model formulation and a random field generation method using Monte Carlo simulation. The verification analyses show the capability of the program in estimating the nonlinear structural behavior including softening. As an application of the developed computational tool, a probabilistic strength analysis of a RC column is conducted in terms of the axial load-bending moment interaction.