• Structural Engineering and Mechanics
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• v.12 no.4
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• pp.377-396
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• 2001

The excessive cracking of RC cantilever decks, which often requires special attention for structural engineers, is studied using a three-dimensional crack analysis model. The model is based on a fracture energy approach for analyzing cracks in concrete, and the numerical analysis is carried out using a modified load control method. The problem of excessive cracking is then studied with four different span-ratios. Based on the numerical results, the crack behavior with respect to the patterns of crack propagation, dissipation of the fracture energy, and effects on the structural integrity are discussed. The mechanisms which cause the excessive cracking are also explained.