A procedure for improved nonlinear analysis of reinforced concrete (RC) slab and shell structures is presented. The finite element program developed employs a layered thick-shell formulation which considers out-of-plane (through-thickness) shear forces, a feature which makes it notably different from most shell analysis programs. Previous versions were of limited use due to their inabilities to accurately capture out-of-plane shear failures, and because analyses were restricted to force-controlled monotonic loading conditions. The research comprising this thesis focuses on addressing these limitations, and implementing new analysis features extending the range of structures and loading conditions that can be considered.

Contributions toward the redevelopment of the program include:​ i) a new solution algorithm for out-of-plane shear, ii) modelling of cracked RC in accordance with the Disturbed Stress Field Model, iii) the addition of fibre-reinforced concrete (FRC) modelling capabilities, and iv) the addition of cyclic and dynamic analysis capabilities. The accuracy of the program was verified using test specimens presented in the literature spanning various member types and loading conditions. The new program features are shown to enhance modelling capabilities and provide accurate assessments of shear-critical structures.

An experimental program consisting of RC and FRC slab specimens under dynamic loading conditions was performed. Eight intermediate-scale slabs were constructed and tested to failure under sequential high-mass low-velocity impact. The data from the testing program were used to verify the dynamic and FRC modelling procedures developed, and to contribute to a research area which is currently limited in the database of literature:​ the global response of RC and FRC elements under impact. Test results showed that the FRC was effective in increasing capacity, reducing crack widths and spacings, and mitigating local damage under impact.

Analyses of the slabs showed that high accuracy estimates can be obtained for RC and FRC elements under impact using basic modelling techniques and simple finite element meshes.