This thesis examines the role of Acoustic Emission (AE) as a non-destructive testing technique for concrete structures. The work focuses on the development of experimental techniques and data analysis methods for the detection, location and assessment of AE from the failure of plain and reinforced concrete specimens. Four key topics are investigated:

Master of Science / Department of Civil Engineering / Kyle A. Riding / When transverse cracks meander there is a high possibility for transverse cracks to meet at a point and connect to another transverse crack, creating a Y-crack. Y-cracks have been blamed for being the origin of punchouts and spallings in CRCPs. When the direction of maximum principal stress changes, it could cause a change in the crack direction, potentially forming a Y-crack. Finite Element Models (FEMs) were run to model the change in principal stress direction based on design and construction conditions. The finite element model of CRCP using typical Oklahoma CRCP pavement conditions and design was assembled. The model included the concrete pavement, asphalt concrete subbase, and soil subgrade. The effect of areas of changed friction on the direction of principal stress was simulated by considering a patch at the pavement-subbase interaction. Investigated factors related to this patch were location of patch, friction between patch and subbase, and patch size. Patches were placed at two different locations in the pavement: a patch at the corner of the pavement and a patch at the longitudinal edge between pavement ends. A change in the friction at the corner had a large effect on the stress magnitude and direction of principal stress, while a patch in the middle did not significantly change the stress state. Also, patch size had a noticeable effect on stress magnitude when the patch was at the corner. Another model was developed to understand the effect of jointed shoulder on direction of maximum principal stress. Analysis of this model showed that the stresses were not symmetric and changed along the width of the pavement. This meandering pattern shows a high potential for Y-cracking. Also, several finite element models were run to understand the effects of different shrinkage between mainline and shoulder. In order to simulate the effects of the differential drying shrinkage between the hardened mainline concrete and the newly cast shoulder, different temperature changes were applied on the mainline and shoulder. For these models, the orientation of the maximum principal stress was not significantly changed from different amounts of temperature decreases between mainline and shoulder. Also, effect of different longitudinal steel percentages was investigated by comparing two finite element models with different steel percentage. The model with higher steel percentage (0.7%) indicated more variation in stress, potentially leading to more crack direction diverging.

<div><div><div><p>The possibility of earthquakes in Indiana due to the presence of the New Madrid Seismic Zone is well known. However, the identification of the Wabash Valley Seismic Zone has increased our understanding of the seismic hazard in the state of Indiana. Due to this awareness of the increased potential for earthquakes, specifically in the Vincennes District, the seismicvulnerability of Indiana’s bridge network must be assessed. As such, the objective of this thesis is to develop a simplified assessment procedure that can be used to conduct a state-wide seismic vulnerability assessment of reinforced concrete bridges in Indiana.</p><p>Across the state, variability in substructure type, seismic hazard level, and soil site class influences the vulnerability of bridges. To fully understand the impact of this variation, a detailed assessment is completed on a representative sample. Twenty-five reinforced concrete bridges are selected across the state, and analyzed using information from the bridge drawings and a finite element analysis procedure. These bridges are analyzed using synthetic ground motions representative of the hazard level in Indiana. The results of the detailed analysis are used to develop a simplified assessment procedure that uses information that is available in BIAS or can be added to BIAS. At this time, BIAS does not contain all the necessary information required for accurate estimates of dynamic properties, thus, certain assumptions are made. Several candidate models are developed by incrementally increasing the level of information proposed to be added into BIAS, which resulted in an increase in the level of accuracy of the results. The simplified assessment is then validated through a comparison with the detailed analysis.</p><p>Through the development of the simplified assessment procedure, the minimum data item which must be added to BIAS to complete the assessment is the substructure type, and bridges with reinforced concrete columns in the substructure require a detailed assessment. Lastly, by increasing the level of information available in BIAS, the agreement between the results of the simplified assessment and the detailed assessment is improved.</p></div></div></div>

<p>The strut-and-tie method (STM) is a powerful tool used for the design of D-regions (disturbed regions) of reinforced concrete structures. Many typical bridge substructure components consist of D-regions and require the use of the STM for design. Implementation of the STM is more complex than typical design methods, and engineers are often unfamiliar with the design process. As a result, designing using the STM is more time consuming than traditional design methods. The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) identified a need for a tool that assists with the design of typical bridge substructure components using the STM. STEP (Strut-and-Tie Evaluation Program) is a computer program created to fulfill this role. To use the computer program, engineers input geometric conditions, material properties, and reinforcement information for a structural component. STEP uses this information to develop a strut-and-tie model and perform STM design procedures. A graphical representation of the model and a summary of the design results are provided as program outputs for the user.</p> <p> </p> <p>STEP, created using Excel VBA, is intended to aid in the design of multi-column bent caps and integral and semi-integral end bent caps. Within this thesis, an overview of the STM is provided, including the basic procedures for designing using the STM. An introduction to Excel VBA is also presented. The document describes the layout and formatting of the computer program, required user inputs, and program outputs. Furthermore, limitations and assumptions within the computer program for the substructure components are also included. Finally, design examples focused on the use of STEP for the design of a five-column bent cap and an integral end bent cap are presented. This document can be used as a resource for engineers when designing bridge substructure components using STEP. </p>

[pt] A crescente demanda por reforços em estruturas de concreto motivou a elaboração deste trabalho. Este estudo consiste na comparação entre modelos para o cálculo da parcela da força cortante resistida pelo reforço externo e na implementação computacional de um procedimento numérico para o dimensionamento da área de reforço à força cortante utilizando a NBR 6118, o modelo da treliça generalizada e a teoria do campo de compressão. Os objetivos deste estudo são: fornecer um melhor conhecimento dos materiais utilizados, promover um melhor entendimento dos parâmetros atuantes na interação do concreto com os materiais compósitos e sistematizar o dimensionamento para obtenção da área necessária de reforço com compósitos de fibras de carbono. A análise dos modelos de cálculo da resistência à força cortante e do dimensionamento da área de reforço foi feita através da comparação dos resultados teóricos com resultados experimentais encontrados na literatura. O modelo para o cálculo da parcela da força cortante resistida pelo reforço externo publicado por Chen e Teng em 2003 foi utilizado na implementação computacional por ser o modelo que apresentou melhor desempenho na comparação. As comparações entre os resultados teóricos do dimensionamento e os resultados experimentais da literatura indicaram a necessidade de se avançar nos estudos para a elaboração de um modelo apropriado para o dimensionamento da área de reforço à força cortante com compósito de fibras de carbono. / [en] The increasing demand for reinforcement of concrete structures using carbon fiber composites was the main motivation of this work. This study consists of the comparison of different models that compute the contribution of the external reinforcement to the shear capacity of the beams, and of the implementation of a numerical procedure for the shear design of strengthened beams using the Brazilian code NBR 6118, the generalized truss model and the compression field theory. The objectives of this study are to supply a better knowledge of the materials used in the strengthening, to promote a better understanding of the parameters that act in the interaction between the concrete and the composite, and to systematize the design in order to obtain the carbon fiber composite cross-section area necessary for the reinforcement. The analysis of the shear reinforcement design models for determining the cross-section area of the carbon fiber composite was developed comparing the analytical results with the experimental results found in literature. The Chen and Teng model, published in 2003, for computing the contribution of the external reinforcement to the shear capacity of the beams, was used in the computational implementation due to the fact that it presented the best performance. Comparing the analytical results obtained by the theoretical model with the experimental results found in literature, the investigations showed the necessity of further studies regarding the implementation of a more appropriate model for the design of the shear reinforcement, and for a more precise computation of the cross-section area of the carbon fiber composite reinforcement.

[pt] Este trabalho compara o projeto ótimo determinístico (DDO) com o projeto ótimo baseado em confiabilidade (RBDO) de pórticos planos de concreto armado. A estrutura é modelada por uma malha de elementos finitos usando elementos de barras e considerando a não-linearidade geométrica e dos materiais. Na formulação do problema de otimização proposto as variáveis de projeto são definidas para cada elemento finito da malha. Elas são as armaduras superior e inferior das seções transversais de extremidade do elemento, a altura da seção do elemento, as áreas de armadura transversal e o parâmetro D usado para descrever os estados limites últimos de acordo com a norma brasileira NBR 6118 (ABNT, 2004). Os algoritmos de otimização utilizados são os de programação quadrática seqüencial (PQS), programação linear seqüencial (PLS) e o método das direções viáveis (MDV). As variáveis randômicas do problema de RBDO são a resistência à compressão do concreto, as resistências à tração e à compressão do aço, assim como as cargas aplicadas. As funções de comportamento são de dois tipos, a primeira é relativa à carga crítica da estrutura e a segunda ao controle de deslocamento para o estado limite de utilização. Para o cálculo da probabilidade de falha de uma função de comportamento, em cada iteração do problema de RBDO, o método FORM (PMA) utilizará o algoritmo HMV para obtenção do ponto de projeto. Análise de sensibilidade é feita pelo método analítico. / [en] This work compares the Deterministic Design Optimization (DDO) with the Reliability-Based Design Optimization (RBDO) of reinforced concrete plane frames. The structure is modeled by a finite element mesh using bar elements and considering both geometric and material nonlinearities. In the formulation of the proposed optimization problem the design variables are defined for each element of the finite element mesh. They are the areas of tensile and compressive reinforcement at the element ends, the depth of the element rectangular cross-section, the areas of shear reinforcement, and the parameter D used to describe the deformation limit sates for the element cross-sections defined according to the Brazilian code for the design of concrete structures NBR 6118 (ABNT, 2004). The optimization algorithms used are the Sequential Linear Programming (SLP), the Sequential Quadratic Programming (SQP) and the Method of Feasible Direction (MFD). The random variables of the RBDO problem are the concrete compressive strength, the steel compressive and tensile strength, as well as some applied loads. The performance functions are of two types, the first relates to the critical load of the structure and the second to the control of displacements in the serviceability state. For performing the calculation of the probability of failure for the associated performing function in each iteration of the RBDO problem, the method FORM (PMA) will be used in connection with the HMV algorithm for obtaining the project point. The sensitivity analyses are carried out by the analytical method.

This investigation presents results of the temperature effect on durability properties (resistivity and diffusivity) and compressive strength of concrete with pozzolans, and the effect of pozzolanic admixtures on microstructure and chemical compositions of concrete pore solution. ... Temperature dependence of electrical resistivity and chloride diffusivity was studied by dynamic temperature tests. Accelerated curing regimes involving curing concrete specimens in 35À C lime water with different durations were tested. Compressive strength test, resisivity measurement and rapid chloride migration (RCM) tests were performed. A leaching method was used to measure pH and conductivity of concrete pore solution. ... The accelerated curing regimes were found to increase the compressive strength and resistance to chloride ion penetration at short-term and long-term. With the developed correlation between resistivity and migration coefficients, it is possible to employ the resistivity measurement as an alternative or replacement of the RCM test to evaluate resistance of chloride ion penetration of concrete. Pozzolanic admixtures were found to decrease both pH and conductivity of concrete pore solution as the replacement ratio increased. Moreover, the migration coefficients were found to be greatly correlated to the microstructure properties of concrete, such as porosity, formation factor and tortuosity. / by Yanbo Liu. / Thesis (Ph.D.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2012. / Includes bibliography. / Mode of access: World Wide Web. / System requirements: Adobe Reader.

In recent years, high strength concrete (HSC) is becoming an attractive alternative to traditional normal strength concrete (NSC), and is used in a wide range of applications. With the increased use of HSC, concern has developed regarding the behavior of such concrete in fire. Until now, the fire performance of HSC is not fully understood and more research is needed. Full-scale fire testing is time consuming and expensive, and the real fire scenario is different from the standard fire. Performance-based assessment methods, including numerical analysis and simplified method, are being accepted in an increasing number of countries. In this dissertation, the fire testing results both of HSC and NSC are presented, performance-based numerical models are developed to study the fire performance of reinforced concrete (RC) members, and simplified calculation methods are proposed to estimate the load capacity of fire-damaged RC columns/beams. A detailed and comprehensive literature review is presented that provides background information on the high temperature behavior of concrete materials and RC members, as well as information on fire performance assessment procedures and objectives. The fire testing results of seven batches of HSC and NSC are presented and discussed. The test results indicated that the post-fire re-curing results in substantial strength and durability recovery, and its extent depends upon the types of concrete, temperature level, and re-curing age. The fire tests also showed that violent explosive reduced the risk of HSC explosive spalling. The surface crack widths were also reduced during the re-curing process, and in most cases, they were found within the maximum limits specified by the American Concrete Institute (ACI) building code. / Numerical models are developed herein to investigate the behavior in fire of RC columns and beams. The models have been validated against fire test data available in literature, and used to conduct parametric studies, which focused on the size effect on fire resistance of RC columns, and the effect of concrete cover thickness on fire endurance of RC beams. Simplified calculation methods have been developed to predict the load capacity of fire damaged RC columns/beams. This method is validated by five case studies, including thirty-five RC columns tested by other investigators. The predicted results are compared with the experimental results, and the good agreement indicates the adequacy of the simplified method for practical engineering applications. / by Lixian Liu. / Thesis (Ph.D.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2009. / Includes bibliography. / Electronic reproduction. Boca Raton, Fla., 2009. Mode of access: World Wide Web.

Neste trabalho são apresentadas duas importantes áreas de pesquisa voltadas para problemas de otimização: a Programação Matemática e, especialmente, os Algoritmos Genéticos. São classificados grande parte dos métodos clássicos da Programação Matemática, com uma breve apresentação das suas classes de subproblemas, bem como detalhes de alguns métodos. O desenvolvimento da ciência que explica a evolução das espécies é descrito, como uma ponte para a compreensão da técnica dos Algoritmos Genéticos. Apresentam-se as diferenças básicas entre os Métodos Clássicos e os Algoritmos Genéticos, com posterior análise das vantagens e desvantagens entre estas duas classes de ferramentas de otimização. São apresentados os principais parâmetros de influência no funcionamento de um Algoritmo Genético e algumas recomendações quanto às suas configurações. A essência desse trabalho se constitui em alguns exemplos de otimização de estruturas de concreto armado, como o de um trecho de Pilar dimensionado à Flexão Composta Obliqua e um Pórtico Plano de Concreto Armado de Cinco Pavimentos. Finalizando, conclui-se pela tendência promissora dos Algoritmos Genéticos para os próximos anos, o que tornará esta técnica uma das mais importantes e empregadas na resolução de uma vasta gama de aplicações. / This work addresses two important issues of Optimization: Mathematical Programming and Genetic Algorithms. First, classes of optimization problems, that can be handled by the classical methods of Mathematical Programming, are briefly presented. After that, the techniques of Genetic Algorithms are displayed in detail. Such methods are inspired by the laws that rules the evolution of the species. The basic differences between the Mathematical Programming and Genetic Algorithms are deeply discussed. The main parameters that control Genetic Algorithms are described and some recommendations about their values are made.The work is concluded y some optimization examples of reinforced concrete structures, as a column under combined axial load and bi-axial bending and a five floor reinforced concrete plane frame.

Atualmente, alguns códigos como o CEB/90 e o texto base da NB-1/94 (ainda em fase de apreciação pelo meio técnico) têm apresentado inovações com relação à verificação da resistência à punção. Fez-se então, neste trabalho, uma análise do texto base da NB-1/94 referente à punção, comparando suas recomendações com algumas das fornecidas pelo CEB/90. Observou-se uma certa divergência entre os dois códigos com relação a pilares de borda e de canto, fornecendo o CEB/90 um tratamento mais simplificado para essas duas situações. Além disso, observa-se que, ao contrário do CEB/90, o texto base não menciona as seguintes recomendações: utilização de uma armadura a ser disposta ao longo das bordas livres da laje, destinada a combater esforços de torção, e limitação da resistência do concreto em 50 MPa para essas verificações. Observou-se, ainda, uma omissão desses dois códigos com relação à situação de pilares internos submetidos a momentos fletores atuando em duas direções diferentes. Sugere-se, ainda, ao texto base, a inclusão de expressões que visem a facilitar e agilizar a sua aplicação. Após essa análise, foram apresentados exemplos de cálculo para pilares internos, de borda e de canto, tanto com como sem armadura de punção, verificados segundo as recomendações do texto base da NB-1/94, do EUROCODE N.2, do CEB/90 e do ACI 318/89. Por fim, comparam-se resultados experimentais com valores dados por estes códigos, visando determinar suas respectivas eficiências frente a alguns parâmetros, tais como, por exemplo, a presença de armadura transversal ou a relação entre os lados do pilar. Verifica-se que a utilização de armaduras de combate à punção pode elevar substancialmente o valor da resistência da ligação, além de torná-la mais dúctil. As observações referentes à comparação entre os valores fornecidos através de ensaios e os dados pelos códigos devem ser levadas em consideração apenas como uma indicação de seus respectivos comportamentos, necessitando-se de mais dados para uma afirmação mais conclusiva. / Nowadays, some standards like CEB/90 and the Brazilian code basic text NB-1/94 (not approved yet) have presented some innovations for the punching shear strength. In this work, a comparative analysis is presented about the NB1-94 basic text recommendations and some presented by the CEB/90. Some differences are noted between the NB1-94 basic text and the CEB/90 recommendations relatives to corner and edge columns. The CEB/90 has a simplified treatment for these situations. lt is noted that, in opposition to the CEB/90, the NB1-94 basic text about punching shear strength does not mention an additional reinforcement to be placed at the free edges of the slab, to provide torsion strength, and neither have a limit value of 50 MPa for the concrete compressive strength. lt is also noted that the CEB/90 and the NB1-94 basic text do not have a recommendation for internal columns with bending moments acting on two different directions. lt is suggested that the NB1-94 basic text includes some expressions that can make its application easier and faster. After this analysis, some examples are presented with internal, edge and corner columns, with and without shear reinforcement, verified by the NB1-94 basic text, the EUROCODE N.2, the CEB/90 and the ACI 318/89 recommendations. Finally, a comparative analysis between some experimental results and those given by the codes is presented. The experimental results were related to some parameters like, for instance, the presence of shear reinforcement or the column sides ratio. lt is verified that the shear reinforcement utilization can give more resistance and ductility to the connection. Finally, it is noted that the observations about the comparison between the experimental results and the values given by the codes can just be taken like a behavior indication for the connections. For conclusive affirmations, more experimental analysis are necessary.