Code Type Models For Concrete Behaviour

fib Model Code 2010 represents the state-of-the-art of code-type models for structural behaviour of concrete. It comprises constitutive relations and material models together with the most important explanatory notes. However the underlying normative work, i.e. the fundamental data as well as the considerations and discussions behind the formulas could not be given within the Model Code text. Based on various experiences gained after the publication of Model Code 1990 this lacking background information will lead in the following to numerous questions arising from Model Code users. Consequently the present bulletin claims to conquer this general weakness of codes in a way to guard against any future misunderstandings of the Model Code 2010 related to its chapter 5.1 (Concrete). It discusses the given formulas in connection with experimental data and the most important international literature. The constitutive relations or material models, being included in MC1990 and forming the basis and point of origin of the Task Group’s work, were critically evaluated, if necessary and possible adjusted, or replaced by completely new approaches. Major criteria have been the physical and thermodynamical soundness as well as practical considerations like simplicity and operationality. This state-of-the-art report is intended for practicizing engineers as well as for researchers and represents a comprehensible summary of the relevant knowledge available to the members of the fib Task Group 8.7 at the time of its drafting. Besides the fact that the bulletin is a background document for Chapter 5.1 of MC2010, it will provide an important foundation for the development of future generations of code-type models related to the characteristics and the behaviour of structural concrete. Further it will offer insights into the complexity of the normative work related to concrete modelling, leading to a better understanding and adequate appreciation of MC2010.

The International Federation for Structural Concrete (fib) is a pre-normative organization. 'Pre-normative' implies pioneering work in codification. This work has now been realized with the fib Model Code 2010. The objectives of the fib Model Code 2010 are to serve as a basis for future codes for concrete structures, and present new developments with regard to concrete structures, structural materials and new ideas in order to achieve optimum behaviour. The fib Model Code 2010 is now the most comprehensive code on concrete structures, including their complete life cycle: conceptual design, dimensioning, construction, conservation and dismantlement. It is expected to become an important document for both national and international code committees, practitioners and researchers. The fib Model Code 2010 was produced during the last ten years through an exceptional effort by Joost Walraven (Convener; Delft University of Technology, The Netherlands), Agnieszka Bigaj-van Vliet (Technical Secretary; TNO Built Environment and Geosciences, The Netherlands) as well as experts out of 44 countries from five continents.

The objectives of MC2010 are to (a) serve as a basis for future codes for concrete structures, and (b) present new developments with regard to concrete structures, structural materials and new ideas in order to achieve optimum behaviour. MC2010 includes the whole life cycle of a concrete structure, from design and construction to conservation (assessment, maintenance, strengthening) and dismantlement, in one code for buildings, bridges and other civil engineering structures. Design is largely based on performance requirements. The chapter on materials is extended with new types of concrete and reinforcement (such as fibres and non-metallic reinforcements). The fib Model Code 2010 also gives corresponding explanations in a separate column of the document. Additionally, MC2010 is supported by background documents that have already been (or will soon be) published in fib bulletins and journal articles. MC2010 is now the most comprehensive code on concrete structures, including their complete life cycle: conceptual design, dimensioning, construction, conservation and dismantlement.

Sustainability in construction is a priority for both academia and industry to reduce the carbon footprint of the built environment and thus combat climate change. Numerous approaches have been developed on how to tackle this issue, wherein the implementation of eco-efficient concrete is currently considered one of the most effective measures to be applied at the beginning of a building’s life cycle. This edition of the Structural Engineering Document discusses key issues in selecting and incorporating eco-efficient waste materials capable of enhancing the sustainability of structural concrete in construction projects. The cost-efficiency of using recycled aggregates in structural concrete is shown by several world-renowned researchers. Critical evaluations and case studies further highlight the properties and performance of these materials and in various structural applications. Also, novel low-impact binding systems using industrial by-products showcase the importance of continuous research for technically viable alternatives capable of decreasing the huge dependency on ordinary Portland cement. The purpose of this document is to contribute to a broader understanding of the many possibilities for the development of a more sustainable structural concrete, thereby fostering resilient and sustainable construction practices to support the global commitment to environmental responsibility.

This book contains the proceedings of the fib Symposium “High Tech Concrete: Where Technology and Engineering Meet”, that was held in Maastricht, The Netherlands, in June 2017. This annual symposium was organised by the Dutch Concrete Association and the Belgian Concrete Association. Topics addressed include: materials technology, modelling, testing and design, special loadings, safety, reliability and codes, existing concrete structures, durability and life time, sustainability, innovative building concepts, challenging projects and historic concrete, amongst others. The fib (International Federation for Structural Concrete) is a not-for-profit association committed to advancing the technical, economic, aesthetic and environmental performance of concrete structures worldwide.

This book provides a State of the Art Report (STAR) produced by RILEM Technical Committee 254-CMS ‘Thermal Cracking of Mas-sive Concrete Structures’. Several recent developments related to the old problem of understanding/predicting stresses originated from the evolution of the hydration of concrete are at the origin of the creation this technical committee. Having identified a lack in the organization of up-to-date scientific and technological knowledge about cracking induced by hydration heat effects, this STAR aims to provide both practitioners and scientists with a deep integrated overview of consolidated knowledge, together with recent developments on this subject.

The fib has two major missions now. One is to work toward the publication of the Model Code 2020, and the other is to respond to the global movement toward carbon neutrality. While the former is steadily progressing toward completion, the latter will require significant efforts for generations to come. As we all know, cement, the primary material for concrete, is a sector that accounts for 8.5% of the world’s CO2 emissions. And the structural concrete that fib handles consume 60% of that. In other words, we need to know the reality that our structural concrete is emitting 5% of the world’s CO2. From now on, fib members, suppliers, designers, builders, owner’s engineers, and academic researchers will be asked how to solve this difficult problem. In general, most of the CO2 emissions in the life cycle of structural concrete come from the production stage of materials and the use stage after construction, i.e. A1 to A3 and B1 to B5 processes as defined in EN15978. Cement and steel sectors, which are the main materials for structural concrete, are expected to take various measures to achieve zero carbon in their respective sectors by 2050. Until then, we must deal with the transition with our low carbon technologies. Regarding the production stage, the fib has recently launched TG4.8 “Low carbon concrete”. And the latest low carbon technologies will be discussed there. On the other hand, in the use stage, there is very little data on the relationship between durability and intervention and maintenance so far. The data accumulation here is the work of the fib, a group of various experts on structural concrete. Through-life management using highly durable structures and precise monitoring will enable to realize minimum maintenance in the use stage and to minimize CO2 emissions. Furthermore, it is also possible to contribute to the reduction of CO2 emissions in the further stage after the first cycle by responding to the circular economy, that is, deconstruction (C), reuse, and recycle (D). However, the technology in this field is still in its infancy, and further research and development is expected in the future. As described above, structural concrete can be carbon neutral in all aspects of its conception, and it can make a significant contribution when it is realized. The fib will have to address these issues in the future. Of course, it will not be easy, and it will take time. However, if we do not continue our efforts as the only international academic society on structural concrete in the world to achieve carbon neutrality, the significance of our very existence may be questioned. Long before Portland cement was invented, Roman concrete, made of volcanic ash and other materials, was the ultimate low-carbon material, and is still in use 2’000 years later because of its non-reinforced structure and lack of deterioration factors. Reinforced concrete, which made it possible to apply concrete to structures other than arches and domes, is only 150 years old. Prestressed concrete is even younger, with only 80 years of history. Now that we think about it, we realize that Roman concrete, which is non-reinforced low carbon concrete, is one of the examples of problem solving that we are trying to achieve. We have new materials, such as coated reinforcement, FRP, and fiber reinforced concrete, which can be used in any structural form. To overcome this challenge with all our wisdom would be to live up to the feat the Romans accomplished 2’000 years ago. Realizing highly durable and elegant structures with low-carbon concrete is the key to meet the demands of the world in the future. I hope you will enjoy reading this AOS brochure showing the Outstanding Concrete Structures Awards at the fib 2022 Congress in Oslo. And I also hope you will find some clues for the challenges we are facing.