THE MODIFIED COMPRESSION FIELD THEORY: THEN AND NOW

The Modified Compression Field Theory (MCFT) was first proposed 40 years ago as a simple and practical model for calculating the response of cracked reinforced concrete elements under general loading conditions with particular emphasis on shear behavior. The model was essentially based on a smeared rotating crack concept, treating cracked reinforced concrete as an orthotropic material with unique constitutive responses different from those of plain uncracked concrete. The Disturbed Stress Field Model (DSFM), an extension of the MCFT, was later introduced; it served to remove some restrictions and troublesome calculations associated with the original formulation, increase the accuracy and generality of the method, and ease implementation into advanced analysis procedures. The MCFT/DSFM, in addition to serving as the basis for shear design procedures in various structural design codes, has been implemented in several nonlinear finite element analysis programs. In recent years, the application of the method has been extended to more advanced research areas including new materials, extreme loading conditions, stochastic analysis, fiber-reinforced concrete, deteriorated and repaired structures, multi-platform analysis, and hybrid simulation. This seminar will present a brief overview of the MCFT and its evolution over the last four decades. It will be shown that the MCFT remains a viable and effective model whose value lies in its simple yet versatile formulation, enabling it to serve as a foundation for accurately solving many diverse and complex problems pertaining to reinforced concrete structures.

Bio :
Frank J. Vecchio, Ph.D., P.Eng., is a Professor of structural engineering in the Department of Civil Engineering at the University of Toronto, where he has been on Faculty since 1985. His research interests generally relate to the development of improved analysis and design procedures for reinforced concrete structures, particularly for those that are shear-sensitive. Activities include the development of advanced constitutive models and nonlinear finite element procedures, application to the assessment and forensic analysis of concrete structures, and analysis of repaired or rehabilitated structures. Additional interests include the modeling and assessment of fibre reinforced concrete (FRC) structures, structures rehabilitated with fibre reinforced polymers (FRP), and structures subjected to extreme loads including blast, impact, fire and earthquake. He is the author of over 120 technical papers in these areas.