Finite element analysis

In current design practice, structural analysis for reinforced concrete frames is generally based on the assumption that plane sections remain plane after loading and the material is homogeneous and elastic. Therefore, linear elastic methods of analysis are normally adopted for the design of simple reinforced concrete beams and frames to obtain the member forces and bending moments that will enable the design and detailing of the sections to be carried out, despite the fact that reinforced concrete is not a homogeneous and elastic material (British Standard BS 8110:1985).