Title: Characteristics of Compressive Stress Distribution in High-Strength Concrete

Author(s): Halit Cenan Mertol, Sami Rizkalla, Paul Zia, and Amir Mirmiran

Publication: Structural Journal

Volume: 105

Issue: 5

Appears on pages(s): 626-633

Keywords: compression; flexure; high-strength concrete; loading; rectangular stress block; strain; stress

DOI: 10.14359/19946

Date: 9/1/2008

Abstract:
This paper describes fundamental characteristics of the compressive stress distribution in the compression zone of flexural members with concrete compressive strengths up to 18 ksi (124 MPa). The proposed model is based on testing of 21 plain concrete specimens subjected to combined flexure and axial compression up to failure. The main variable considered was the strength of concrete that ranged from 10.4 to 16 ksi (71.7 to 110.3 MPa). Each specimen was subjected to two independent loads with a specific configuration to induce maximum compressive strain at one face and zero strain at the opposite. The measured stress-strain curves and stress block parameters were compiled with the data found in the literature. The results were used to develop recommended revisions for the LRFD specifications to extend their current limitation of 10 ksi (69 MPa) for concrete compressive strength up to 18 ksi (124 MPa).