Mesoscale numerical study of size effect on concrete fracture characteristics based on FDEM

Yamin Wu; Tuanjie Wang; Junfeng Duan; Lei Song

doi:10.56748/ejse.24667

Authors

Yamin Wu Zhengzhou University of Industrial Technology
Tuanjie Wang School of Architectural Engineering College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University
Junfeng Duan School of Architectural Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Industrial Technology
Lei Song China Construction Seventh Engineering Division Corp. Ltd.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56748/ejse.24667

Keywords:

Concrete, Microscopic simulation, Fracture characteristic, FDEM, Size effect

Abstract

Fracture characteristics of concrete remains a focal point of current research. Traditional experimental approaches and finite element simulations face limitations in the study of concrete's fracture behavior. The novel combined finite-discrete element method (FDEM) offers pronounced advantages for investigating concrete fracture at the mesoscopic scale. In this paper, utilizing the FDEM approach, a mesoscale concrete model encompassing aggregates, mortar, and the interfacial transition zone was constructed. Three-point bending simulations on concrete beams with precast cracks revealed the mesoscopic fracture processes and characteristics. Results showed that as beam height increases, the fracture energy of the specimens first increases then decreases, and the ductility index decreases. Additionally, as the crack height ratio increases, the beam's fracture energy gradually lowers, while the ductility index initially rises then falls. This study provides insights into beam fracture mechanisms and properties, contributing to the failure analysis of concrete structures at the engineering scale.

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