Theoretical and experimental study of membrane action in orthotropic concrete slabs in the framework of robustness assessments of concrete structures

When a concrete slab is excessively loaded, membrane forces can considerably increase their load-carrying capacity and thus the robustness of concrete structures. The research aims at the study of tensile membrane action on the basis of large-scale tests. Analytical and numerical models are developed and assessed against experimental results. Based on these investigations, design guidelines are suggested.