How to properly define the CDP material in Abaqus? 1

[JamesPowell]

I am simulating biaxial cyclic loadings on a post-tensioned segmental concrete column in Abaqus. I apply the loads as boundary conditions to the loading block with displacement vs time amplitudes.
When the job runs and I have a look at the results and plot displacement vs. reaction force, the hysteresis curves look strange. I believe this is because I have incorrectly defined the concrete material (using CDP material). How do I properly define the material to get accurate results?
Or is there another reason why I could possibly be getting these strange results? I can attach an image of my model, as well as a snapshot of the concrete material definition I used in my model if it would help.
Please if someone has any tips or questions it would be greatly appreciated, I am new to the software!
Thank you

 

[FEA way]

Try testing your material data with simple single element model. For this purpose you can use the input files available in the Verification Guide. Just replace the material data with your parameters.

 

[JamesPowell]

Thank you, I am trying that now. How do I use this to tell if my material is correct? And if it is not, how do I fix it?

 

[FEA way]

Such a simple test allows you to observe the material response clearly. You can plot force-displacement curve to make sure that your material behaves as expected.