ABSTRACT
This study presents a series of non-linear finite element analyses (NLFEA) conducted in conjunction with an experimental campaign on prestressed concrete beams made continuous by a cast-in-situ diaphragm and deck slab. Due to the lack of experimental data for this beam typology and its intricate structural behavior, these specimens provide an ideal test-case for an unbiased numerical study. The analyses include blind predictions, post-dictions, and sensitivity studies on six specimens. Sensitivities are explored by varying finite element discretization, constitutive models, and solution procedures. A brief overview of the experimental program is provided, and a reference model is established as the basis for the numerical study. NLFEA results are compared with experimental findings, and model uncertainties are quantified. Blind prediction outcomes demonstrate that the reference model can accurately estimate ultimate failure load and failure mode, where the post-dictions result react rather insensitive to updated material properties. However, the numerical response is significantly influenced by element size and the adopted smeared crack formulation (rotating versus fixed crack approach). It remains unclear whether this size dependence arises from specific modeling choices or structural details unique to the experiment. Further investigation into this topic is needed and is part of ongoing research activities.
