Two-dimensional X-ray CT image based meso-scale fracture modelling of concrete. (January 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ren, Wenyuan; Yang, Zhenjun; Sharma, Rajneesh; Zhang, Ch; Withers, Philip J.
• Is Part Of: Engineering fracture mechanics. Volume 133(2015)
• Page Start: 24
• Page End: 39
• Publication Date: 2015-01
• Subjects: Concrete -- X-ray Computed Tomography -- Image based modelling -- Meso-scale finite element model -- Cohesive crack model; Fracture mechanics -- Periodicals; Rupture, Mécanique de la -- Périodiques; Fracture mechanics; Periodicals; 620.112605
• DOI: 10.1016/j.engfracmech.2014.10.016
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0013-7944

Abstract

Highlights: Realistic fracture simulated by XCT image-based mesoscale concrete models. Micro/macro fracture presented in detail to elucidate fundamental mechanism. Tensile strength found inversely proportionate to void fraction statistically. Relative ratio of cohesive strength in cement and interface is a key factor. Abstract: Two-dimensional meso-scale finite element models with realistic aggregates, cement paste and voids of concrete are developed using microscale X-ray Computed Tomography images. Cohesive elements with traction–separation laws are pre-embedded within cement paste and aggregate–cement interfaces to simulate complex nonlinear fracture. Tension tests using a large number of images were simulated with statistical analysis. The very different load-carrying capacities and crack patterns demonstrate the effects of random distribution of phases. It is found that the tensile strength decreases as the void fraction increases, and the relative strength of cement paste and interfaces dominates the microcracking behaviour, which in turn affects macrocracking and load-carrying capacity.