Simulation of damage and crack formation in the composite structure of concrete under freeze-thaw cycles

Title: Simulation of damage and crack formation in the composite structure of concrete under freeze-thaw cycles
Author(s): T. Hörsch, F.H. Wittmann
Paper category : conference
Book title: International RILEM Workshop on Frost Resistance of Concrete
Editor(s): M. J. Setzer, R. Auberg and H. - J. Keck
Print-ISBN: 2-912143-30-6
e-ISBN: 2351580370
Publisher: RILEM Publications SARL
Publication year: 2002
Pages: 225 - 234
Total Pages: 10
Nb references: 14
Language: English

Abstract: A three dimensional numerical model for the composite structure of concrete is pro-posed. Rounded aggregates are supposed to be embedded in a mortar matrix. The Inter-facial Transition Zone (ITZ) between matrix and aggregates is also taken into consid-eration as a third phase. A finite element mesh generation of this model is realized by tetrahedral elements based on Delaunay triangulation. The aggregates, following a prede¬fined size distribution, are placed randomly in the specimen. The shape of the aggregates is approximated by spheres or ellipsoids. The matrix, consisting of mortar with a maxi¬mum grain-size of 2 mm, is assumed to be homogeneous with effective material parameters. The interface layer surrounding the aggregates represents a weak zone and can be described with statistically distributed material properties. Finite elements with linear or quadratic interpolation functions can be considered. A smeared crack model is used, which allows to take irreversible damage into consideration. By means of this numerical model the damage evolution induced by eight freeze-thaw cycles is being investigated and compared with appropriate experimental data.

Online publication: 2010-06-28
Publication type : full_text
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