Understanding fracture mechanism and behaviour of ultra-high strength concrete using mesoscale modelling

Abstract

Ultra High Strength Concrete (UHSC) is a composite material of which the fracture and damage behavior is highly dependent on its constituent phases. Damage and fracture behavior of UHSC is markedly different from the Normal Strength Concrete (NSC) due to its brittle behavior and crushing through the aggregate. This complex behaviour and influence of properties of constituent phases to the mechanical properties of UHSC cannot be understood using conventional testing on materials. To better understand this complex fracture behavior and influence of the phases, a different approach is required. Mesoscale modelling where concrete is modelled as a three-phase material which consists of aggregates..