Pretest predictions report for the Sandia 1:6 scale reinforced concrete containment

It was necessary to perform 2D scoping analysis to identify high strain locations which were then analyzed in greater detail in separate 3D models. 3D analysis required the development of a 3D concrete constitutive model and extensive model generating and postprocessing capabilities. The familiar notion that concrete containments leak before they burst catastrophically under excess pressure will be put to the test in the 1:6 scale model. This failure mode is caused by localized dislocation motion near stiffness discontinuities and at major cracks. The analysis identifies a number of liner rupture mechanisms in the model, particularly in the wall-basemat juncture area where linear connection, liner-welded stud anchorage design, and basemat bottom reinforcing design play major roles in the failure of the structure. (orig./HP)