A three-dimensional meso-scale approach to concrete fracture based on combined DEM with X-ray CT images

作者：Nitka M; Tejchman J^*

来源：Cement and Concrete Research, 2018, 107: 11-29.

DOI：10.1016/j.cemconres.2018.02.006

• Aggregate, concrete beam
• DEM
• Fracture
• Interfacial transitional zones
• X-ray mu CT

The paper shows three-dimensional (3D) numerical mesoscopic results on progressive concrete fracture at aggregate level in a notched concrete beam under bending. A classical particle discrete element method was used to capture fracture in concrete. Heterogeneity was taken into account with a 4-phase concrete description: aggregate, cement matrix, macro-voids and interfacial transitional zones. Both the real shape and location of aggregate particles in concrete were assumed in DEM analyses based on X-ray mu CT scans. A satisfactory agreement in terms of the vertical force versus crack mouth opening displacement evolution and crack geometry was achieved between DEM analyses and own laboratory tests. The evolution of broken contacts, contact normal forces, particle rotations, internal energies was studied at the aggregate level. The 3D results were also carefully compared with the 2D ones. The 3D model proved to be a promising simulation tool in predicting concrete fracture at the mesoscopic and macroscopic level.

• 出版日期2018-5