Contents

The course deals with computationally oriented methods for nonlinear and limit analysis of reinforced and prestressed concrete (RC/PC) structures under static, dynamic, and seismic loading by taking into account both material and geometrical nonlinearities. Special attention is devoted to criteria and methods for modeling the time-variant deterioration effects of aging and damage processes, including corrosion of steel reinforcement associated with chloride diffusion and thermal degradation of materials under fire. Basic concepts of life-cycle reliability analysis of deteriorating concrete structures are also presented, with emphasis on nonlinear and limit analysis procedures for the assessment of time-variant risk and reliability-based system performance indicators such as redundancy, robustness, and resilience.

Expected Learning Outcomes

The expected learning outcomes encompass: (1) Solid knowledge and in-depth understanding of computational methods and programming techniques for nonlinear structural analysis of RC/PC structures; (2) Ability to apply knowledge and understanding to nonlinear analysis of concrete cross-sections and frame structures; (3) Critical thinking in solving structural analysis problems of real civil engineering systems, including buildings and bridges and addressing specific modeling issues of deteriorating concrete structures.

Assignments include programming of computer codes for nonlinear analysis of RC/PC cross-sections, with benchmark testing and applications. Grading is based on completeness and accuracy of the submitted assignments and final oral examination. The oral exam consists of open questions on the course topics and in-depth discussion of the assignment reports aimed at assessing the students’ knowledge and understanding of theory, implementation, and proper application of computationally oriented nonlinear analysis methods to concrete structures.