Nonlinear finite element analysis has become very useful in modelling complicated structural systems and their behaviour. In this paper, an attempt has been made to utilize a tension softening material (TSM) model to simulate the full pre-cracking and post-cracking response of fibre reinforced concrete flat slabs at slab-column connections by finite element analysis. Validation of the developed numerical model was carried out by means of comparisons with test results. In addition, a universal analytical model has been proposed to predict the ultimate punching shear strength of slab-column connections. Compared with the relevant design codes (BS 8110, ACI 318–05, EC 2 1991, EC 2 2004/CEB-FIP MC90 and JSCE 1986), the model proposed herein has been shown to be accurate, with low coefficient of variation. Furthermore, a distinctive failure mode indicator has also been derived.
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