Generation of realistic 3D concrete aggregate microstructures using multiscale multifractal evolutionary stochastic manifold and operator-split-genetic algorithm

Abstract

Concrete aggregates have a random and complex microstructure. This study presents a computational framework and methodology for realistic representation, simulation, and optimization of stochastic 3D aggregate microstructures. Central to the proposed methodology is the representation of aggregate microstructures as multiscale multifractal evolutionary stochastic manifolds that evolve over time in the topological space. In addition to the manifold representation scheme, a coupled-operator-split-genetic algorithm is also developed for the simulation and optimization of aggregate microstructures. The proposed scheme is particularly attractive due to its simplicity and ability to capture the complex morphological, topographical, and evolutionary characteristics of aggregate microstructures. More than a new method, this study introduces a novel concept of multiscale multifractal evolutionary hypersurface for the simulation and optimization of aggregate microstructures. The applicability and capability of the proposed approach may open up new ways to better understand, characterize, simulate, and capture many complex micromechanical behaviors of cementitious materials.