Serviceability and Strength Analysis of Normal and High Strength Concrete Structures

Abstract

Serviceability and strength of concrete structures constitute a major research front at many research establishments. Reported herein covers mainly the activities at the School of Engineering, Griffith University. Work conducted to-date ranges from the development of the layered finite element method and the associated theoretical studies to elaborate laboratory tests of high strength concrete elements. In particular, serviceability studies include natural frequency, cracking and crack patterns, deflection and damping characteristics; strength investigations embrace beams, slabs and walls, as well as the punching shear strength of flat plates. Also covered is a long-term on-site study of column shortening in a recently completed 80-storey residential building on the Gold Coast, Southeast Queensland. These research endeavours have resulted in a significant number of publications. Summarised herein are the research findings over the period mainly from 1995 to 2005. Also included are relevant formulas and analytical procedures which may assist practising engineers in the design of concrete structures.