Abstract
In this paper a model law for the notch sensitivity of brittle materials, for instance hardened cement paste, mortar or concrete is presented. This model law shows that notch sensitivity is a necessary however not a sufficient condition for the applicability of linear elastic fracture mechanics. The model law indicates that notch sensitivity of a brittle material decreases with increasing fracture toughness, decreasing tensile strength and decreasing specimen size. The model law explains the increase of the net failure stress of notched specimens with increasing notch depth after passing through a minimum. Such behavior frequently has been observed in experiments on hardened cement paste, mortar and concrete specimens. Results of flexure tests on notched and unnotched hardened cement paste specimens and concretes of various sizes are in accord with the model law.
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