Abstract
In this paper, concrete fracture was experimentally and theoretically investigated at aggregate level. Three-point quasi-static bending tests with notched beams were performed. Microstructure before and after test was observed with the x-ray micro-tomography. In addition, the interfacial transitional zones (ITZs) between aggregate and cement matrix were studied. In order to describe the experimental fracture process, the discrete element method (DEM) was used. Concrete was modelled as random heterogeneous 4-phase material composed of aggregate particles, cement matrix, interfacial transitional zones (ITZs) and air voids. The concrete microstructure was taken directly from microtomography images. The numerical 2D and 3D outcomes were directly compared with the experimental results. A satisfactory agreement between calculations and experiments was achieved. Attention was paid to the influence of the aggregate shape and ITZs' strength on fracture.
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