Determining Compressed Concrete Element Limit States Based on the Widths and Depths of Cracks Caused by Transverse Deformations

In the modern theory of compressed concrete elements, the most attention is paid to longitudinal deformations, whereas transverse ones are rarely considered and just within Poisson’s coefficient limits (i.e., elastic concrete behavior in the transverse direction). However, transverse deformations significantly develop beyond the limits corresponding to Poisson’s coefficient, where they lead to longitudinal crack initiation and development. In-depth experimental and numerical investigations of transverse deformations in the inelastic stage showed that it is necessary to consider crack propagation. The present study proposes simultaneous consideration of longitudinal and transverse deformations, as well as the appearance of cracks and their widths and depths. This allowed us to obtain a complete compressed concrete element behavior pattern at all performance stages in two types of limit states (based on longitudinal and transverse deformations). Consequently, new ultimate limit states by the depth and width of cracks caused by transverse deformations are proposed to be included in modern design practices and codes.