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A Coulomb-based model to simulate concrete cracking using cohesive elements

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Abstract

This paper presents a constitutive model for cohesive elements to simulate crack formation and propagation in mode I and mixed mode in quasi-brittle materials. The model is based on the plasticity theory and features a Coulomb-based yield function, a non-associated flow rule and an implicit stress integration scheme. It also incorporates concepts of nonlinear fracture mechanics to model the softening behavior of the fracture process. Two softening laws are investigated, a bilinear and an exponential law. The results from concrete crack propagation simulations of several classical experiments are presented. Numerical load–CMOD and load–displacement curves showing softening behavior are in very good agreement when compared with experimental data. In summary, the model is able to provide accurate predictions of the whole fracture process on all cases studied.

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Acknowledgements

The support from the Brazilian Research Council (CNPq) is gratefully acknowledged.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Brasilia, Campus Darcy Ribeiro, Brasilia, DF, CEP 70910-900, Brazil

    Raul Durand & Fernando Hipólito Barros Trinidade da Silva

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  1. Raul Durand
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  2. Fernando Hipólito Barros Trinidade da Silva
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Correspondence to Raul Durand.

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Durand, R., da Silva, F.H.B.T. A Coulomb-based model to simulate concrete cracking using cohesive elements. Int J Fract 220, 17–43 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10704-019-00395-5

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