Workshop: Simulation Axial Compression Of The Ultra High Performance Fiber Reinforced Concrete Column In Abaqus

In this tutorial, the axial compression of an Ultra-High-Performance Fiber Reinforced Concrete (UHPFRC) column is simulated using Abaqus.

The column is modeled as a three-dimensional solid part with a circular cross-section. Reinforcing bars inside the column are represented as three-dimensional wire parts. Two rigid bodies are included: one acts as a support, and the other applies the compressive load.

Over the past three decades, extensive research has led to the development of Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UHPC). UHPC offers very high compressive strength, good tensile strength, improved toughness, and excellent durability. However, UHPC is brittle. To overcome this limitation, fibers are added, creating Ultra-High-Performance Fiber Reinforced Concrete (UHPFRC). The fibers significantly improve ductility, fracture toughness, and energy absorption capacity.

In Abaqus, the Concrete Damage Plasticity (CDP) model is used to capture the nonlinear behavior of UHPFRC. This model is based on plastic flow theory. Material properties for the UHPFRC are taken from a reference study. Steel reinforcement is modeled with elastic-plastic behavior.

The simulation uses a general static step to apply compression. A general contact algorithm defines interactions between parts, and the reinforcing bars are embedded within the concrete host. Boundary conditions are applied: the bottom rigid body is fixed, while the top rigid body is given a displacement boundary condition to apply the compressive load. A fine mesh is required to achieve accurate results.

After running the simulation, results such as stress, strain, displacement, and the force–displacement diagram can be obtained. From the force–displacement diagram, the maximum load capacity and failure zones of the column can be identified.