Application of meso-scale finite-element method to strength and size effect of concrete

Abstract

An analytical study on the compression, tension and shear strengths of concrete and corresponding size effect is conducted using the meso-scale finite-element method (FEM). Prior to the analysis, a method of defining concrete as a meso-scale composite and multi-phase is described. The concrete is assumed to be a composite with three phases: aggregates, cement matrix and interfacial transition zone. The material properties of each phase are applied. Behaviours relating to uniaxial and flexural compressive failure, splitting and direct tensile failure of concrete, and shear failure of reinforced concrete are analysed using the model constructed; the size effect is confirmed through these analyses. The performance of the analytical models is also evaluated by comparing experimental with analytical results. Finally, it is confirmed that the application of the meso-scale size analysis model is enough when studying the occurrence and progress of tensile cracks. This basic study represents a fresh application of meso-scale FEM analysis to concrete; in future research, the authors will apply meso-scale FEM analysis in a wider variety of fields.