Improving FE models of a long-span flat concrete floor using natural frequency measurements

The paper identifies an appropriate FE model for determining the dynamic characteristics of a long-span flat concrete floor using natural frequency measurements. The Cardington concrete building was selected for the study because it represents a popular form of concrete construction. The natural frequencies of the floors were measured. Several FE models of the floor are considered and the models are refined based on the comparison between numerical predictions and the frequency measurements. It is concluded that a floor-column model provides the most appropriate representation of the actual structure.