Abstract
Generating random aggregate models (RAMs) plays a key role in the mesoscopic modelling of concrete-like composite materials. The arbitrary geometry, wide gradation, and high volume ratio of aggregates pose a great challenge for fast and efficient numerical construction of concrete meso-structures. This paper presents a simple strategy for generating RAMs of concrete based on Laguerre tessellation, which mainly consists of three steps: tessellation, geometric smoothing, and scaling. The computer-assisted design (CAD) file of RAMs obtained by the proposed approach can be directly adopted for the construction of random numerical concrete samples. Combined with the image-based octree meshing algorithm, the scaled boundary finite element method (SBFEM) was adopted for an automatic stress analysis of mass concrete samples, and a parametric study was conducted to investigate the meso-structural effects on concrete elasticity properties. The modelling results successfully reproduced the increasing trend of concrete elastic modulus with the grading of coarse aggregates in literature test data and demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed strategy.
Highlights
Concrete is widely accepted as a composite material, and the main constituents at the meso-scale are commonly categorized into aggregate, mortar matrix, and interfacial transition zone
Based on the computer-assisted design (CAD) file of random aggregate models (RAMs), the scaled boundary finite element method (SBFEM) program combined with the octree algorithm is used to mesh irregular-shaped aggregates and the matrix component automatically, and the factors affecting elastic constants of large aggregate concrete are discussed from a mesoscopic point of view
This paper presents a simple strategy for generating 3D RAMs of concrete materials, and its combination with SBFFEM and the image-based octree meshing technique allows a simple and efficient investigation into the meso-structural effects on the macro-scale mechanical behaviors of concrete
Summary
Concrete is widely accepted as a composite material, and the main constituents at the meso-scale are commonly categorized into aggregate, mortar matrix, and interfacial transition zone. It is obvious that the existence of large or extremely large aggregates in concrete would demand the adoption of a sufficiently huge specimen for the determination of fundamental material behavior according to routine testing methods, and in turn would impose great challenges for the choice of testing machines Overcoming these limitations is quite difficult, and wet-screened concrete is widely used instead for material testing by screening the aggregates larger than a certain size after mixing the components. Based on the CAD file of RAMs, the SBFEM program combined with the octree algorithm is used to mesh irregular-shaped aggregates and the matrix component automatically, and the factors affecting elastic constants of large aggregate concrete are discussed from a mesoscopic point of view
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
