Shear Crack Prediction in Shallow Reinforced Concrete Beams Using a Nonlinear Approach

This study was conducted because of the lack of an existing theory to accurately predict diagonal tension cracking in shallow reinforced concrete beams. A rational approach is followed to numerically derive the shear stress profile across the depth of the section in cracked beams based on the smeared crack approach. Furthermore, the determined shear stress distribution coupled with the normal axial stress distribution are used to predict the principal stress variation across the depth and along the shear span using the standard Mohr's circle. Following a biaxial stress cracking criterion, the likely diagonal tension cracks along their orientation profile are predicted.