Abstract
The aim of the current research is to develop a complex multilevel approach for the experimental–computational determination of mechanical fracture parameters of concrete as a typical quasi-brittle material. This includes testing, advanced evaluation and soft computing-based identification of specimens of multiple sizes in multiple test configurations and analyses of fracture processes using multiscale modelling approaches. The evaluation of a part of an extensive experimental program is presented in this paper. The basic mechanical fracture parameters of the investigated concrete determined on standard test specimens with nominal dimensions of 100 × 100 × 400 mm subjected to the standard three-point bending fracture test are introduced. The results of three different sets of specimens provided with different depths of the initial notch are compared in terms of absolute values of the selected mechanical fracture parameters. The results indicate different sensitivity of particular mechanical fracture parameters in relation to the depth of the initial notch.
Highlights
The theory of concrete fracture, despite all the efforts of numerous researchers, still has failed to provide a clear answer to the problem of fracture processes in concrete
The evaluation of a part of an extensive experimental program is presented in this paper
The basic mechanical fracture parameters of the investigated concrete determined on standard test specimens with the nominal dimensions of 100 × 100 × 400 mm subjected to the standard three-point bending fracture test are introduced
Summary
The theory of concrete fracture, despite all the efforts of numerous researchers, still has failed to provide a clear answer to the problem of fracture processes in concrete. The most commonly used method for measuring the fracture energy is the work-of-fracture method recommended by RILEM [1]. Values determined by this method are dependent on the size and shape of the test specimen. Several researchers have analysed this size effect on fracture energy measurements according to the RILEM procedure. They proposed modifications to obtain size-independent specific fracture energy of concrete, see Bažant and Kazemi [2]. Abdalla and Karihaloo [3] showed that the same size-independent specific fracture energy can be obtained by testing only two specimens of the same size but with notches which are well separated
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 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.
