An Innovative Approach to Reduce Bursting and Spalling Stresses at Anchorage Zone of Post-Tensioned Member Incorporating Different Types of Reinforcement Configuration

Abstract

The intricacies inherent in comprehending stress distribution within the proximity of the termination section of a post-tensioned member, specifically the anchorage zone, underscore the need for precise and viable assessment methods for regions susceptible to heightened stress levels. This study presents a meticulous approach for evaluating anchorage zone stresses, particularly bursting and spalling stresses, utilizing three-dimensional stress distribution using FE analysis employing the ABAQUS program. The effectiveness of the finite element model was verified through a mesh sensitivity analysis. In the evaluation of anchorage zone stresses, multiple anchorage zone reinforcement configurations were meticulously modeled, encompassing distribution ratios (the ratio of the depth of the anchor plate to that of the anchorage zone) spanning from 0.2 to 0.9. This comprehensive analysis facilitated the examination of stress variations, specifically bursting and spalling stresses, across the span of the anchorage zone. Various attempts were made to mitigate these stresses, employing innovative reinforcement configurations, which were systematically compared with conventional counterparts. The outcomes of this study distinctly illustrate that regions experiencing excessive stress levels are efficiently managed with the implementation of suitable reinforcement configurations. The results demonstrate that both bursting and spalling stresses can be effectively controlled in post-tensioned specimens' anchorage zones, achieving reductions of 62% and 33%, respectively, through the strategic deployment of proposed advanced reinforcement configurations.