Investigating Effect of Size Element in Nonlinear Behavior of Concrete Shear Wall

Completion and development of reliable analytical models using finite element method could help investigation and prediction of the actual structure response results. Analysis of each model in finite element software need meshing that computer results are dependent specific to geometry and dimensions of the elements, calling mesh dependence. Finding a strategy for independency of results to meshing is tangible. For the mentioned purpose and also to investigate the role of finite elements meshing in flanged shear walls, finite element software was used. Different meshing of shear walls which tested by vecchio and Palermo analyzed and studied. Finally and after calibration, optimum forms and dimensions recommended. As an illustration, an idea presented, which indicates by using that, flanged shear wall could be analyzed more carefully in ultimate strength and ductility. The results of this analysis showed that the results of squared mesh are closer to the fact. For example, this type of meshing 6% error in ultimate strength and ductility in accordance to lab Specimen, presented the closer responses. Furthermore, investigation on the optimum size of the mesh showed that if the mesh has the same size of the thickness of the connecting element (Shear Wall Web), the results will have very high accuracy. For example, squared meshes with same dimension of meshes equal to web thickness, rather than those with half dimension of that led to 1% of lateral resistance, which is closer to experimental test.