Cyclic Shear and Dowel Action Models in R/C

The transfer of reversed cyclic shear forces across cracks in reinforced concrete by interface shear transfer and by dowell action is treated in this paper. Experimental cyclic shear load-shear displacement results are given for the interface shear transfer mechanism alone, the dowel action mechanism alone, and the combined mechanism. Empirical prediction expressions are presented for the two independent mechanisms; these mechanisms are then combined to provide a model for predicting the load-displacement relationship for combined interface shear transfer and dowel action, including the effects of load cycling. Model predictions compare reasonably well with experimental results.