Analysis of structural concrete bar members based on secant stiffness methods

In this paper, the behavior of structural concrete linear bar members was studied using numerical model implemented in a computer program written in MATLAB. The numerical model is based on the modified version of the procedure developed by Oukaili. The model is based on real stress-strain diagrams of concrete and steel and their secant modulus of elasticity at different loading stages. The behavior presented by normal force-axial strain and bending moment-curvature relationships is studied by calculating the secant sectional stiffness of the member. Based on secant methods, this methodology can be easily implemented using an iterative procedure to solve non-linear equations. A comparison between numerical and experimental data, illustrated through the strain profiles, stress distribution, normal force-axial strain, and moment-curvature relationships, shows that the numerical model has good numerical accuracy and is capable of predicting the behavior of structural concrete members with different partially prestressing ratios at serviceability and ultimate loading stages.