'International Association for Bridge and Structural Engineering (IABSE)'
Abstract
In normal design situations, RC slabs are in general designed using small deformation theories while
taking into account linear elastic behaviour. However as indicated by previous large structural
failures the importance of considering the behaviour of RC slabs at large deformations is as
important. Based on multiple experimental studies it is clear that RC slabs can develop alternate
load paths and consequently generate a significant strength reserve by membrane action once large
deformations occur due to the removal of a load-bearing element. This strength reserve is of major
importance as this could result in an important increase of the structural robustness for RC buildings.
In this contribution a parametric study with a numerical model is performed to investigate the
design possibilities on membrane action in RC slabs. Next the reliability of the developed membrane
action and alternate load path is calculated for a reference case which is subjected to the removal
of a central support considering the static and pseudo-static behaviour