Title: Micromechanical Modeling of Concrete Response under Static Loading—Part 1: Model Development and Validation

Author(s): Ashraf Ragab Mohamed and Will Hansen

Publication: Materials Journal

Volume: 96

Issue: 2

Appears on pages(s): 196-203

Keywords: cracking (fracturing); finite element method; loads (forces); tensile strength

DOI: 10.14359/445

Date: 3/1/1999

Abstract:
A new micromechanical model has been developed that considers tensile cracking as the only fracture criterion at the microlevel. The model utilized the finite element method as a numerical tool where the truss element is used as the basic element in the finite element mesh. The internal structure of concrete is considered as a three-phase material, viz. matrix, aggregate, and interfaces between the matrix and the aggregate phases. The model considers the randomness of the aggregate phase as well as the probabilistic nature of the properties of the three phases. The constitutive relations of the elements for all phases at the microlevel are described according to the smeared cracking concept that is based on the fictitious crack model. The proposed model is able to predict the complete mechanical response of concrete materials under monotonic loading, the crack patterns associated with different loading stages, localization of deformation, and the effect of size on nominal strength. Model predictions are in good agreement with documented experimental work.