Resistance of columns

A large strain, large displacement finite element model that allows element separation and failure is constructed and validated based on existing results of reinforced concrete columns subjected to blast loads. In this approach, concrete is represented with the Johnson-Holmquist-Cook model while a plastic-kinematic relationship describes steel behavior. The model is used to predict the capacity of typical reinforced concrete bridge columns to resist an assumed blast load scenario, where changes in concrete strength, steel reinforcement ratio, and axial force on the column are considered. The effectiveness of a method of column protection is investigated, where existing columns are wrapped with a relatively inexpensive steel fiber reinforced polymer (SFRP) jacket. It was found that the use of SFRP can significantly enhance the resistance of the columns.