Slenderness lower bound for reinforced concrete columns

Abstract

In this paper, an expression for slenderness lower bond in RC non sway slender columns with rectangular cross-section is proposed, in order to know when the second order effects may be neglected. This expression is valid not only for normal strength concrete but for high strength concrete. Using a criterion based on the relative loss of resistance capacity of the column in relation to that of its cross-section and a numerical model for representing the column behaviour, the different parameters influencing the slenderness lower bond are analysed. The main factors have been included in the proposed expression. Finally, the expressions proposed by EHE and MC90 for the slenderness lower bond have been compared to the results obtained by the numerical model.