Numerical modeling on micro-to-macro evolution of crack network for concrete materials

• Published in: Theoretical and applied fracture mechanics Vol. 107; p. 102525
• Main Authors: Wu, Baijian, Li, Zhaoxia, Tang, Keke
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Amsterdam Elsevier Ltd 01.06.2020; Elsevier BV
• Subjects: Aggregate volume; Brittle materials; Coalescing; Computer simulation; Concrete; Concrete properties; Crack network; Evolution; Macrocrack formation and propagation; Mathematical models; Microcrack growth and coalescence; Microcracks; Propagation; Stochastic distribution; Aggregate volume; Stochastic distribution; Macrocrack formation and propagation; Microcrack growth and coalescence; Crack network
• ISSN: 0167-8442; 1872-7638
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tafmec.2020.102525

•Complete process of crack network evolution is modelled through the proposed approach.•It covers multiple crack growth/coalescence, formation/propagation and the rupture.•Microcrack distribution is stochastic, which coincides with physical phenomenon.•Influence of aggregate volume fraction on concrete strength and ductility is studied. Large quantities of microcracks existing in quasi-brittle materials like concrete can be graphically referred as crack network. Specifically, the network evolution includes microcrack growth and coalescence, macrocrack formation and propagation, and the final rupture. In this regard, the present work aims to formulate a numerical approach that is able to describe the whole process of crack network evolution for concrete materials. Particularly postulated is the stochastic distribution of microcracks in concrete, which coincides with the physical phenomenon in concrete. Highlighted are the growth and coalescence of microcracks, as well as the formation and propagation of macrocracks. A numerical case is carried out to study the concrete specimens that are subjected to tensile loading. The thorough process of crack network evolution is clearly simulated through the approach. Also investigated are the influence of aggregate volume fraction on concrete strength and ductility. The proposed approach provides a guide reference for concrete engineering practice, as well as modeling the complete process of concrete failure.