Finite Element Investigation of R/C Wall with Openings

Abstract

In the past, reinforced concrete walls were considered as non-load bearing and as such limited research was done on these elements. Due to the recent popularity of tilt-up construction and concrete cores in tall buildings, reinforced concrete walls have become just as important structural element as beams, slabs and columns. The current design codes, wall design equations are intended for load bearing walls supported at top and bottom only. Those code provisions do not directly include the effects of side restraints on the load carrying capacity. Also, the wall sometimes has a hole as the windows to utilize the human life. The recently released guidelines for simplified wall design allow for increased capacity due to side restraints. More specifically, the code recognized wall panels in two-way action, supported laterally on three and four sides. In view of this, the authors have undertaken extensive investigations on the applicability of more reliable and accurate wall design methods. However, to assess the characteristics of R/C wall only by experimental data, it will be quite laborious work. Therefore, numerical approach is important and useful. In this paper, the finite element method (FEM) is used to conduct a comparative study with existing experimental test results. The study focuses on the effect of various support conditions and the hole of a window.