Lessons from the analysis of a 3-D concrete shear wall

A three-dimensional static nonlinear finite element analysis was performed on the NUPEC large-scale flanged shear wall, which was the subject of an international study program. Details of the constitutive models and analysis procedures used are provided, and the results of the analysis are presented and discussed. The analytical results are compared to the experimentally observed behaviour, and reasonable correlation is observed. Deficiencies in the modelling are identified. In addition, a parametric study is undertaken to investigate factors and mechanisms influencing both the observed behaviour and the calculated response. Finally, a cyclic load analysis of the wall is described and discussed. The paper serves to point out aspects in modelling that are critical to both producing realistic results, and correctly interpreting those results.