Testing additively manufactured small scale RC specimens for statistical validation of structural models in earthquake engineering

Abstract

This paper claims that a major source of error in Seismic Analysis of Structures is the assumptions used to scale up from component- to system-level behavior. It also claims that validation of numerical models should be performed statistically. As a statistical validation requires multiple virgin specimens, the paper suggests the use of a 3D printer to construct the reinforcement of microRC specimens (1:40) to be tested in a geotechnical centrifuge. It presents some first tests on gypsum-based microconcrete, additively manufactured rebars with diameters as low as 0.35mm, and small scale RC beams. The properties observed seem to resemble the ones of full scale RC components. Given the material properties, Opensees is able to accurately capture the behavior of the microbeam.