A numerical method for improving seismic resistance of concrete based on its meso-scale damage mechanisms

Abstract

In this study, reliable image-based meso-scale damage evolution simulation of concrete can be executed by considering its heterogeneous meso-components. Meso-scale damage evolution of concrete with different meso-components are simulated and analyzed here, which can be used to optimize seismic resistance of concrete. As a case study, seismic damage process of a reinforced concrete (RC) column with different meso-component parameters are simulated. From the simulation results, it can be seen that improvement of the properties of interfacial transition zone (ITZ) can significantly improve the seismic performance of RC columns. The established reliable damage evolution simulation of concrete can supply a useful numerical tool to study the method for improving seismic performance of RC column such as optimizing concrete’s meso-model parameters.