Experimental and numerical nano-characterisation of two phases in concrete. (22nd September 2009) - Reinhardt, Aaron K.
Concrete is the most used material in construction worldwide. Concrete is a composite material including three phases: cement paste, aggregate and interfacial transition zone (ITZ). Previous research has demonstrated that the macro behaviour of concrete represents the integration of its constituent phases. Here, we present a methodology to experimentally and numerically characterise the mechanical performance of individual points within these constituent phases. Concrete samples made of high performance concrete are indented using state of the art nano-characterisation system. Using nano-positioning technique load-indentation curves are recorded at two individual points at the cement paste (CP) phase and at the ITZ phase. The load-indentation relationship showed a significant difference between the mechanical behaviours at both points. The finite element (FE) method is used to simulate behaviour at both phases. It is shown that the load-indentation curves can be simulated accurately using FE providing insight on intrinsic constitutive models.