Random Aggregate Generation and Mesoscale Modeling of Concrete under High Strain Rate Compression

Abstract

In the mesoscale modeling, concrete is assumed consisting of three components, i.e., coarse aggregates, mortar matrix, and the interfacial transition zone (ITZ), each with different material behavior. The shape and the percentage of the coarse aggregate are the key factors in the mesoscale numerical simulation. The present paper investigates the effect of the coarse aggregate shape on the concrete behavior under high strain rate compression. Simplified methods are adopted to construct the aggregate distribution. Three different aggregate shapes, i.e., circular, oval and polygons, are generated to model the gravel and crushed stone aggregates, respectively. Using these different aggregate shapes, concrete specimens under high strain rate compression are modeled. Numerical results show that the aggregate shapes have a significant effect on the crack path, whereas little effect on the overall responses of the concrete specimen.