Three-dimensional bond model considering the coupled damage effect for dowel action Available to Purchase

The behaviour of the dowel action as a shear transfer mechanism across interfaces and joints has been recognised as an important component of structural analysis. In this paper, a three-dimensional non-linear bond model considering the coupled damage effect of concrete was developed to simulate the mechanism of interaction between reinforced bars and subgrade concrete. The local axis strain of the rebar and the local compressive strain of concrete were chosen as quantitative indicators of the damage effect. In total, 15 specimens were tested to investigate the effect of the bar diameters, concrete strength, pre-tension and concrete cover on the dowel action. A parameter study based on the experimental data was performed to calibrate the damage index of the model. Verification of the model was conducted by comparing the analysis results with available experimental results. The results show that the proposed model gives good predictions for both failure mechanisms of dowel action.