Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis on the Transmission of Column Loads through Slab-Column Connections

This paper presents the structural characteristics of slab-column connections by using nonlinear finite element analysis. FEA considering material non-linearity was performed to investigate average column strain, failure mode, principal stress distribution, and steel yielding conditions for various slab-column members. In addition, to investigate alternative methods for improving the strength of interior column-slab joints, some specimens were provided with different reinforcing types of high-strength concrete puddling, high-strength column longitudinal steels, dowel bars, and high-strength concrete core. To make certain of the reliability of the analytical program, analysis results for concrete material model developed and two specimens with and without puddling were compared with experimental results. It was found that providing the alternative reinforcing methods in the slab-column joint results in a significant improvement in performance. This includes an increase in the axial compressive strength, greater loading stiffness, and ductility.