UC Irvine

This dissertation presents the details of the findings of a study focused on evaluating the structural behavior of three-dimensional (3D) cementitious sandwich panels with Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) foam core for two-way slab applications. In this study, both theoretical and finite element numerical analysis procedures were adopted to predict the performance of such slabs under out-of-plane loading conditions. The results from theoretical and finite element analysis were verified by comparison with full-scale laboratory tests conducted at the Structural Engineering Test Hall (SETH). The sandwich panels evaluated in this study comprise of expanded polystyrene foam sandwiched between high-strength mortar faces reinforced with cold-rolled steel wires in two directions. Two analytical methods were utilized in characterizing the flexural behavior of the sandwich slabs; mainly (i) Yield Line Theory, and (ii)finite element modeling using MARC-MENTAT software. In the finite element (FE) model, the concrete facings of the panel modeled using quadrilateral plate elements, whereas steel wire mesh is represented by beam elements. The FE model was analyzed by nonlinear static analysis. Numerical FE results are compared with experimental data to validate the numerical approach used. Based on the results of this research, it was concluded ix that a simple MARC finite element model can be used to analyze the flexural behavior of these sandwich panels for two-way slab applications. Analytical results using FEA show good correlation with the experimental results. Furthermore, recommendations for future research in this area are presented.