Estimating the relationship between tension reinforcement and ductility of reinforced concrete beam sections

An algorithm and simplified formulas for estimating the relationship between the tension reinforcement and ductility of reinforced concrete beams are presented. The effects of concrete confinement and spalling of the concrete cover are considered. The algorithm is demonstrated by an example. The results obtained compare reasonably well with computer analysis and experimental data. Designers should find the tools presented in the paper useful in the preliminary design phase, so that adequate ductility is provided when sizing members and selecting steel content.