Numerical simulation of the stress-strain state of beams with rigid composite reinforcement

Introduction. One of the key stages of the BIM-model development is the assessment of loads and impacts. The framework for executing such calculations is integrated into specialised software applications. The finite element method, a prevalent numerical technique for addressing diverse scientific and engineering challenges, is arguably the most often used method for structural calculations globally, having acquired prominence due to its advantages. This method encompasses the ability to calculate structures with complex geometry by approximating surfaces to the necessary precision, the ability to take into account materials with different properties in the structure and so on. The primary downside of this method is the necessity of doing numerous calculations. The contemporary computational capabilities of IT equipment enable rapid calculations, yet the complexity and demands of these calculations are also increasing.

One of the promising materials gaining increasing interest in the building industry is the pultruded polymer profile. Structures reinforced with such profiles have only recently came to use in construction; hence, experimental data are available in restricted amount. In instances involving structures reinforced with composite polymer reinforcement, the application of pultruded polymer profiles in external calculation methodologies draws a parallel to rigid steel reinforcement, with modifications made to account for the features of these profiles. Regulatory papers for domestic constructions using rigid composite reinforcement have yet to be developed.

The aim of research is to develop a finite element model for assessing the bearing capacity of bending elements reinforced with rigid composite polymers and to evaluate the resulting data.

Materials and Methods. This study details the numerical implementation of the model using the SIMULIA Abaqus software package, which has several advantages. The application enables the simulation of both static and dynamic loading, provides detailed visualisation of results, and includes specialised tools for getting solutions that account for nonlinear factors such as plasticity, creep, and variations in rigidity. The problem is solved by a spatial formulation that considers the nonlinear characteristics of concrete and reinforcement.

Research outcomes. The numerical model can be used for further studies into the performance of structures with stiff composite reinforcement subjected to load. The proposed model enables the selection of ideal parameters for designing bending elements with pultruded polymer profile reinforcement, hence maximising the strength attributes of the composite profile. The model is based on the principle of deformation of concrete and reinforcement of various types, substantiated by experimental evidence.

Conclusions. New opportunities for predicting the strength and deformability of promising materials and structures in software packages integrated with BIM-models can provide modern and popular technical solutions. This corresponds to the strategic approaches to digital transformation in construction adopted in our country.