Abstract
This paper examines the effects of mix compressive strength (30, 35 and 40 MPa) on the fracture initiation toughness, resistance-curve behavior and fatigue crack growth behavior of concrete mortar. The fracture initiation toughness and the resistance-curve behavior are shown to increase with increasing mix strength. The observed resistance-curve behavior is then attributed largely to the effects of ligament bridging, which are predicted using small- and large-scale bridging models. In contrast, the fatigue crack growth resistance is shown to decrease with increasing mix strength. An extended multiparameter framework was used for the modeling of fatigue crack growth. Finally, the implications of the results are discussed for the design of concrete mixtures with attractive combinations of strength, fracture toughness and fatigue crack growth resistance.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
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.
