Robust modeling of RC structures with an “event-by-event” strategy

The sequentially linear analysis is a robust alternative to nonlinear finite element analysis of structures when bifurcation, snap-back or divergence problems arise. The load–displacement response is captured by a series of linear analyses as a sequence of ‘events’. Every ‘event’ is a scaled critical state corresponding to the reaching of some peak of some saw-tooth for some softening element. Now, the approach is extended with a rippled saw-tooth curve which applies to any stress–strain diagram, including compression nonlinearity and yielding of reinforcement. Several RC structural examples demonstrate that both sharp snap-backs as well as ductile failures can be handled correctly.