Locating cracks in RC structures using mode shape-based indices and proposed modifications

This study presents the application of two indices for the locating of cracks in Reinforced Concrete (RC) structures, as well as the development of their modified forms to overcome limitations. The first index is based on mode shape curvature and the second index is based on the fourth derivative of the mode shape. In order to confirm the indices' effectiveness, both eigenvalues coupled with nonlinear static analyses were carried out and the eigenvectors for two different damage locations and intensities of load were obtained from the finite element model of RC beams. The values of the damage-locating indices derived using both indices were then compared. Generally, the mode shape curvature-based index suffered from insensitivity when attempting to detect the damage location; this also applied to the mode shape fourth derivative-based index at lower modes. However, at higher modes, the mode shape fourth derivative-based index gave an acceptable indication of the damage location. Both the indices showed inconsistencies and anomalies at the supports. This study proposed modification to both indices to overcome identified flaws. The results proved that modified forms exhibited better sensitivity for identifying the damage location. In addition, anomalies at the supports were eliminated.