Nonlinear Modeling Parameters of Reinforced Concrete Coupling Beams

The present study investigated nonlinear modeling parameters for reinforced concrete coupling beams. Based on a review of the existing test results of 79 coupling beams, modeling parameters of varying aspect ratios and transverse reinforcement ratios were proposed. First, the effective stiffness and yield deformation were formulated as functions of aspect ratio. Second, the deformation capacity varying with reinforcement details was examined, and its design equation was defined as a function of transverse reinforcement ratio. Third, the energy dissipation ratio to define hysteresis loop under cyclic loading was suggested as a function of aspect ratio and reinforcement details. For verification, the modeling results of load-deformation relations were compared with the existing test results. The predicted load-deformation relations showed good agreement with the test results. Finally, practical applications to computer modeling are discussed.