This chapter examines the application of the computational theory for analyzing multiple discrete cracks of the mode-I type (EFCM) to study failure modes and maximum loads. It is well known that fatigue mechanisms are complicated, and it has become increasingly clear that the phenomenon is closely related to multiple-crack activities during cyclic loading. The chapter begins with numerical studies on the load-carrying capacity of a notched concrete beam subjected to various monotonic loads, focusing on the change of cracking behavior and the maximum load as the load condition changes. It is confirmed that the cracking behavior and the failure mode are very sensitive to the loading positions, which could alter significantly the load-carrying capacity of a simple beam. Also, it is found that under a given load condition, increasing the number of initial notches in a numerical model may not necessarily reduce the flexural strength of the beam. Furthermore, in the chapter, numerical studies using cyclic loads of varying loading position are carried out, aiming at clarifying the effects of changing loading positions during cyclic loading on cracking behavior and the load-carrying capacity of a notched beam.
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