Determination of epistemic uncertainties in non-linear finite-element analyses of slender reinforced concrete elements

This work deals with the evaluation of model uncertainties in non-linear finite-element analyses of reinforced concrete columns having high slenderness. The use of numerical models to investigate the response of reinforced concrete members imply the need of simplifications of epistemic nature. In the study, the epistemic uncertainty is evaluated by comparing the results of 40 experimental tests on slender reinforced concrete columns to the outcomes of non-linear finite-element simulations. The tests have been reproduced considering different model assumptions: two software and three concrete tensile behaviour. The model uncertainty has been then probabilistically treated in order to account for the influence of the experimental uncertainty