Abstract:
This thesis deals with the non-linear analysis of the behaviour of beams, reinforced with composite materials, with respect to shear forces. The modelling is carried out using the general purpose finite element program ANSYS©. Several three-dimensional non-linear models have been developed. These models are obtained by taking into account the mechanical and geometrical properties of the different components of the studied beams.The elements 'SOLID 65'; 'LINK180'; 'SHELL181' and 'SOLID185' were used to model, the
concrete; the steel reinforcement; the fibre reinforced polymers (FRP) and the steel plate supports, respectively. The resulting models were validated by comparison with experimental results. Then a parametric study, notably the configuration and quantity of reinforcements, the geometry of the beams, was carried out, followed by a comparison of the numerical results with experimental results of the literature and the various structural codes such as ACI (American Concrete Institute) and FIB (International Federation of Structural Concrete). Consistent and satisfactory results were observed regarding the beam's load-bearing capacity, deformations, failure modes, cracks distribution and evolution. It was concluded that the models obtained are reliable, predicting adequately the response and behaviour of the tested beams. They are also capable of simulating the entire history of the beam up to failure.
