The corrosion of steel reinforcement in reinforced concrete structures constitutes an alarming problem. To combat this problem, researchers at the University of Texas at Austin developed two, low-cost, passive, wireless sensors: a threshold, corrosion sensor and an analog conductivity sensor. Today, the basic circuit designs for both sensors are finished and their reliabilities are confirmed. However, multiple problems regarding the durability of the sensors remain. This research project: (a) identifies these problems, (b) proposes enhancements for each type of passive, wireless sensor, (c) tests and evaluates the proposed modifications to the sensors, and (d) proposes potential improvements and areas of research regarding the future development of these two sensors. / text

With the rise in hazards that structures are potentially subjected to these days, ranging from pre-contemplated terror attacks to accidental and natural disasters, safeguarding structures against such hazards has increasingly become a common design requirement. The extreme loading conditions associated with these hazards renders the concept of imposing generalized codes and standards guidelines for structural design unfeasible. Therefore, a general shift towards performance-based design is starting to dominate the structural design field. This study introduces a powerful structural analysis tool for reinforced concrete structures, possessing a high level of reliability in handling a wide range of typical and extreme loading conditions in a sophisticated structural framework. VecTor3, a finite element computer program previously developed at the University of Toronto for nonlinear analysis of three-dimensional reinforced concrete structures employing the well-established Modified Compression Field Theory (MCFT), has been further developed to serve as the desired tool. VecTor3 is extended to include analysis capabilities for extreme loading conditions, advanced reinforced concrete mechanisms, and new material types. For extreme loading conditions, an advanced coupled heat and moisture transfer algorithm is implemented in VecTor3 for the analysis of reinforced concrete structures subjected to fire. This algorithm not only calculates the transient temperature through the depth of concrete members, but also calculates the elevated pore pressure in concrete, which enables the prediction of the occurrence of localized thermally-induced spalling. Dynamic loading conditions are also extended to include seismic loading, in addition to blast and impact loading. Advancing the mechanisms considered, VecTor3 is developed to include the Disturbed Stress Field Model (DSFM), dowel action and buckling of steel reinforcement bars, geometric nonlinearity effects, strain rate effects for dynamic loading conditions, and the deterioration of mechanical properties at elevated temperatures for fire loading conditions. Finally, the newly-developed Simplified Diverse Embedment Model (SDEM) is implemented in VecTor3 to add analysis capability for steel fibre-reinforced concrete (SFRC). Various analyses covering a wide range of different structural members and loading conditions are carried out using VecTor3, showing good agreement with experimental results available in the literature. These analyses verify the reliability of the models, mechanisms, and algorithms incorporated in VecTor3.

With the rise in hazards that structures are potentially subjected to these days, ranging from pre-contemplated terror attacks to accidental and natural disasters, safeguarding structures against such hazards has increasingly become a common design requirement. The extreme loading conditions associated with these hazards renders the concept of imposing generalized codes and standards guidelines for structural design unfeasible. Therefore, a general shift towards performance-based design is starting to dominate the structural design field. This study introduces a powerful structural analysis tool for reinforced concrete structures, possessing a high level of reliability in handling a wide range of typical and extreme loading conditions in a sophisticated structural framework. VecTor3, a finite element computer program previously developed at the University of Toronto for nonlinear analysis of three-dimensional reinforced concrete structures employing the well-established Modified Compression Field Theory (MCFT), has been further developed to serve as the desired tool. VecTor3 is extended to include analysis capabilities for extreme loading conditions, advanced reinforced concrete mechanisms, and new material types. For extreme loading conditions, an advanced coupled heat and moisture transfer algorithm is implemented in VecTor3 for the analysis of reinforced concrete structures subjected to fire. This algorithm not only calculates the transient temperature through the depth of concrete members, but also calculates the elevated pore pressure in concrete, which enables the prediction of the occurrence of localized thermally-induced spalling. Dynamic loading conditions are also extended to include seismic loading, in addition to blast and impact loading. Advancing the mechanisms considered, VecTor3 is developed to include the Disturbed Stress Field Model (DSFM), dowel action and buckling of steel reinforcement bars, geometric nonlinearity effects, strain rate effects for dynamic loading conditions, and the deterioration of mechanical properties at elevated temperatures for fire loading conditions. Finally, the newly-developed Simplified Diverse Embedment Model (SDEM) is implemented in VecTor3 to add analysis capability for steel fibre-reinforced concrete (SFRC). Various analyses covering a wide range of different structural members and loading conditions are carried out using VecTor3, showing good agreement with experimental results available in the literature. These analyses verify the reliability of the models, mechanisms, and algorithms incorporated in VecTor3.

The results of an experimental investigation are presented which examine the seismic adequacy of pre-1970 reinforced concrete (RC) corner beam-column joints and the efficacy of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites for both pre- and post-earthquake retrofit of such joints. Four full-scale corner beam-column-slab subassemblages built with identical dimensions and pre-1970 reinforcement details were subjected to a reverse-cycle bidirectional displacement history consisting of alternate and simultaneous cycles in the two primary frame directions before and/or after retrofit. Two of the specimens were first subjected to severe and moderate levels of damage, respectively, then repaired by epoxy injection, and strengthened by adding a #7 reinforcing bar within the clear cover at the column inside corner and by externally bonding multiple layers of carbon fabric to form a carbon-epoxy retrofit system. Two other specimens, one of which had a significantly lower concrete compressive strength, were strengthened in their as-built condition. The CFRP scheme was improved in light of the findings as the experimental program progressed. Pre-1970 RC corner beam-column joints were found to be severely inadequate in meeting seismic demands because of column bar yielding, joint shear failure, loss of anchorage of beam bottom bars, failure of column lap-splices, and the resulting loss of stiffness and strength that dominate their behavior even at relatively low interstory drift levels. Bidirectional loading played a significant role in such response. It was shown, however, that such joints can be strengthened easily both before and after earthquake damage by using CFRP composite schemes. Regardless of the level of existing damage and concrete strength, a "rigid" joint behavior up to interstory drift ratios of at least 2.4% and joint shear strength factors ranging from 1.06 to 1.41√MPa were achieved; such shear strength factors are larger than the value of 1.00√MPa recommended for use with seismically designed, code-conforming corner beam-column joints. A ductile beam hinging mechanism was achieved and energy dissipation capacity was improved efficiently for joints with concrete strengths ranging from 26 to 34 MPa. The subassemblage with significantly low-strength concrete (15 MPa) had low overall lateral stiffness and reduced reinforcement anchorages which prevented the formation of beam hinging. In cases of such low-strength concrete, more invasive operations may be required so that the improved joint shear strength can be mobilized. It is recommended that bidirectional loading be always considered in both pre- and post-retrofit evaluation of corner joints.

Η ενίσχυση πλαισίων οπλισμένου σκυροδέματος με εμφάτνωση από οπλισμένο σκυρόδεμα αποτελεί μια συχνά χρησιμοποιούμενη και αποτελεσματική μέθοδο για την αύξηση της αντοχής και της δυσκαμψίας. Η πειραματική έρευνα μέχρι στιγμής δεν καλύπτει επαρκώς το πεδίο της ενίσχυσης πλαισίων με φάτνωμα από οπλισμένο σκυρόδεμα και αυτό γιατί έχει διεξαχθεί σε μονώροφα και διώροφα πλαίσια, με πάχος φατνώματος αρκετά μικρότερο από το πλάτος των μελών του υφιστάμενου πλαισίου. Αυτό αποτυπώνεται και στο γεγονός ότι ο Ευρωκώδικας 8 – Μέρος 3 δεν αναφέρεται καθόλου στην προσθήκη εμφατνωμένων τοιχωμάτων. Ο Κανονισμός Επεμβάσεων (Καν.Επε) αναφέρεται στη διαστασιολόγηση των τοιχωμάτων αυτών μόνο σε όρους δυνάμεων και δεν παρέχει μέσα για τον υπολογισμό των χαρακτηριστικών τους παραμορφώσεων και της δυσκαμψίας τους. Σκοπός της παρούσας μελέτης είναι η διερεύνηση της απόκρισης πολυώροφων πλαισίων από οπλισμένο σκυρόδεμα, ενισχυόμενων με εμφατνούμενα τοιχώματα. Πραγματοποιήθηκαν υβριδικές δοκιμές σε τρία 4-όροφα πλαίσια οπλισμένου σκυροδέματος ενισχυμένα με φάτνωμα οπλισμένου σκυροδέματος κλίμακας 1:¾. Παράμετροι διερεύνησης αποτελούν τόσο ο οπλισμός του φατνώματος όσο και η σύνδεση του με το περιβάλλον πλαίσιο, για αυτό τον λόγο εξετάζονται δύο τρόποι σύνδεσης του πλαισίου με το φάτνωμα. Από τα πειραματικά αποτελέσματα προκύπτει ότι η σύνδεση για αμφότερους τους τύπους που εξετάστηκαν οδηγεί σε μονολιθική συμπεριφορά του φατνώματος με τα μέλη του περιβάλλοντος πλαισίου. Για την πιστοποίηση των συμπερασμάτων ακολούθησε εκτεταμένη προσπάθεια εκτέλεσης μη-γραμμικών δυναμικών αναλύσεων της απόκρισης των δοκιμίων χρησιμοποιώντας προσομοιώματα αυξανόμενου βαθμού λεπτομέρειας. Η σύγκριση των πειραμάτικών αποτελεσμάτων με εκείνα τον αναλύσεων έδειξαν ικανοποιητική σύγκλιση. Τέλος, με βάση τα παραπάνω προκύπτει ότι οι ιδιότητες του σύνθετου τοιχώματος μπορούν να υπολογιστούν με όσα ισχύουν κατά Καν.Επε. για μονολιθικό τοίχωμα, εφόσον υιοθετηθούν κατάλληλες παραδοχές. / The construction of reinforced concrete infills is a very effective method for retrofitting multi – storey reinforced concrete buildings. The experimental research to date has conducted only at one or two storey specimens with infill thickness considerably smaller than the width of the members of the existing frame. Because of this lack of knowledge, Eurocode 8 - Part 3 does not cover this technique. The Greek code for Structural Interventions (Kan.Epe.) refers to the dimensioning of these walls only in terms of forces and does not provide means for calculating deformation at yielding and ultimate. The purpose of this study is to investigate the response of multi-storey reinforced concrete frames, retrofitted with reinforced concrete infill walls. Three 4-storey reinforced concrete frames infilled with reinforced concrete were tested at 75%-scale via the hybrid testing method. Parameters of investigation are both the reinforcement of the infill and the connection between the surrounding frame and the infill. Two types of connection were examined. The experimental results show that both connection options lead to a close to monolithic behavior of the specimens and to a favourable flexure-controlled energy absorbing mechanism. From the experimental results deformations characteristics at yielding and ultimate were calculated. The magnitude of these deformations are in good agreement with those predicted for a monolithic wall according to Eurocode 8 and Kan.Epe, if one takes into account the reduced fixed end rotation of the wall at the base of each floor due to the epoxy–grouting of the dowels into the frame members. To verify these conclusions nonlinear dynamic analyses were performed with increasing level of detailing. The comparison of experimental results with those of the analysis showed satisfactory convergence.

Investiga-se através da atuação de grandes firmas construtoras no Brasil o desenvolvimento de novos sistemas construtivos, em particular do concreto armado, como um dos fatores protagonistas da modernização da arquitetura entre 1922 e 1937. Intenta-se examinar os diversos programas construtivos, através da premissa da técnica, e suas inferências na realização arquitetônica. Busca-se tomar conhecimento de uma práxis calcada na verdade construtiva e no diálogo entre o arquiteto e o engenheiro. Parte-se do entendimento de novo fenômeno que interferiu na forma de projetar a arquitetura, alterando sua concepção e provocando a cisão entre a técnica e a arte. A modernização urbana teve como características: a concentração das principais atividades modernas nos núcleos urbanos, a reforma dos espaços das cidades para adequá-las aos novos labores e a mudança da percepção ambiental através de novos meios de comunicação, transporte e infraestrutura. A fundamentação desse cenário permite nos abarcar o processo de inserção das construtoras estrangeiras no Brasil. Para tanto, pretende-se compreender a constituição do conhecimento sobre o concreto armado seja no âmbito da engenharia brasileira, seja na da arquitetura. Sabe- se que três temas correntes faziam parte do repertório dessa cultura técnica: a racionalidade, o uso diferenciado dos sistemas modernos de construção e a criação de novas formas. Essas firmas especializadas no sistema construtivo eram verdadeiros campos de experimentação e, consequentemente, de formação de profissionais capazes de criar nova estética advinda da técnica. A atuação de alguns desses profissionais vem sendo tratada por outros trabalhos, mas uma lacuna permanece: o papel das empresas construtoras na modernização da arquitetura brasileira. Com base no estudo de acervos, como o da construtora de origem dinamarquesa Christiani & Nielsen e de empresas construtoras de origem alemãs atuantes na Argentina e no Brasil, esta tese incorpora, além dos objetivos já revelados, também a identificação de profissionais da construção pouco reconhecidos e suas ações nas atitudes modernizadoras do Brasil do século 20. / It has been investigated, through the performance of the largest construction companies in Brazil, the development of new building systems, particularly of the reinforced concrete, as a major contributing factor for the modernization of architecture between 1920 and 1940. The objective is to analyze the various construction programs, their technical premises, and their interferences in the architectural achievement, seeking the awareness of a practice based on the constructive truth and on the dialogue between architect and engineer. The starting point is the understanding of a new phenomenon, which has interfered in the way of designing the architecture, changing its notion, and inducing the division between technology and art. The urban modernization had as characteristics: the concentration of the main modern activities in the urban core, the restructure of city spaces to fit them to new labors and changes in environmental perception through the new media, transportation, and infrastructure. The fundamental principals of this scenario allow us to embrace the process of insertion of foreign construction companies in Brazil. For this, the intention is to understand the nature of the knowledge about reinforced concrete in the scope of either, Brazilian engineering or architecture. It is known that three current themes were part of the repertoire of this technical culture: the rationale, the differential use of modern building systems, and the creation of new forms. These specialized firms in the building system were real fields for experimentation and, consequently, of formation of professionals capable of creating a new aesthetic emerged from the technique. The performance of some of these professionals has already been addressed by other works, but a gap remains: the role of construction companies in the modernization of Brazilian architecture. Based on studies of collections, such as the one from Danish contractor Christiani & Nielsen, and construction companies originated in Germany and operating in Argentina, Uruguay, and Brazil, this thesis includes, besides the already revealed objectives, the identification of construction professionals barely recognized, and their actions towards the attitudes for Brazilian modernization in the 20th century.

It is important to ensure that vulnerable structures (federal and provincial offices, military structures, embassies, etc) are blast resistant to safeguard life and critical infrastructure. In the wake of recent malicious attacks and accidental explosions, it is becoming increasingly important to ensure that columns in structures are properly detailed to provide the ductility and continuity necessary to prevent progressive collapse. Research has shown that steel fibre reinforced concrete (SFRC) can enhance many of the properties of concrete, including improved post-cracking tensile capacity, enhanced shear resistance, and increased ductility. The enhanced properties of SFRC make it an ideal candidate for use in the blast resistant design of structures. There is limited research on the behaviour of SFRC under high strain rates, including impact and blast loading, and some of this data is conflicting, with some researchers showing that the additional ductility normally evident in SFRC is absent or reduced at high strain loading. On the other hand, other data indicates that SFRC can improve toughness and energy-absorption capacity under extreme loading conditions. This thesis presents the results of experimental research involving tests of scaled reinforced concrete columns exposed to shock wave induced impulsive loads using the University of Ottawa Shock Tube. A total of 13 half-scale steel fibre reinforced concrete columns, 8 with normal strength steel fibre reinforced concrete (SFRC) and 5 with an ultra high performance fibre reinforced concrete (UHPFRC), were constructed and tested under simulated blast pressures. The columns were designed according to CSA A23.3 standards for both seismic and non-seismic regions, using various fibre amounts and types. Each column was exposed to similar shock wave loads in order to provide direct comparisons between seismic and non-seismically detailed columns, amount of steel fibres, type of steel fibres, and type of concrete. The dynamic response of the columns tested in the experimental program is predicted by generating dynamic load-deformation resistance functions for SFRC and UHPFRC columns and using single degree of freedom dynamic analysis software, RCBlast. The analytical results are compared to experimental data, and shown to accurately predict the maximum mid-span displacements of the fibre reinforced concrete columns under shock wave loading.

The goal of this diploma thesis is a design study and project documentation for a new-building of a kindergarten in a city of Prešov (city part Solivar), Slovakia. The kindergarten will be a institution for pre-school education for children from 3 to 6 years old. The projects of the kindergarten building consist of one classroom for children within the age from 3-4, one classroom, for children within the age from 4-5 and third classroom for children from 5-6 years old. The designed object also contains janitor’s room and closet, laundry room, director’s office and a community room for cultural happenings held by kindergarten. Parking spaces are designed outside, in front of the building next to the main entrance. The playground is placed on the south-west side. The building of a kindergarten is designed as monolithic reinforced concrete skeleton structure with longitudinal beams. The circumferential walls will be made of ceramic bricks with a contact thermal insulation ETICS system. Ceilings are designed as a monolithic reinforced concrete. Over the 2nd floor, there will be a saddle roof and the roof over the first floor will be flat, with a gravel layer. Foundings of the building are designed as a concrete strips which expand to pads under columns.

New university dormitory in Trnava with five stories is based on the flat land. The first floor is the technical part of the building, space for a temporary accommodation and a separate sales area. Part of the second floor consists of offices for administration, the second part of the floor, as well as the other three stories are designed as a unit system for student accommodation. Total bed capacity is designed for 134 students. The bearing structure of the building is reinforced concrete monolithic skeleton with infill perimeter walls of ceramic bricks. The flat roof of the building is not walkable.

This master´s thesis“ Load-bearing Structure of Multi-purpose Building“ is processed in the form of project documentation according to applicable regulations. It deals with static solution of monolitic reinforced concrete construction of administrative building of Česká spořitelna. Subject of the solutions is reinforced concrete monolithic point – supported ceiling slab, columns and staircase.