A comparative study of C⁰ and C¹ elements for linear and nonlinear transient dynamics of building frames

Abstract

The C¹ continuous element based on the Euler-Bernoulli theory of bending and the C⁰ continuous element based on Timoshenko's theory of bending are compared for their computational efficiency and economy for the analysis of inelastic frames subjected to transient dynamic loads. Moreover, the size of a C⁰ mesh (with only linear elements) is evaluated, which is computationally equivalent to C¹ Hermitian element. Also the ranges of slenderness ratio, in which both these elements are effective and the limits of aspect ratio below which they fail are also determined through the numerical studies.