1
Return

A three-dimensional meso-scale numerical simulation method for concrete considering the dynamic propagation path of cracks

delete2026-05-23
delete0
PRE
AI
L
Li, Dong
L
Liu, Yan
J
Jin, Liu *
D
Du, Xiuli
DOI:10.1016/j.engfracmech.2026.112098delete
deleteOriginal
deleteOriginal request for help
deleteShare
deleteSave
Abstract

Abstract

En 中文
This paper presents a 3D mesoscopic numerical simulation method for concrete, which accounts for dynamic crack propagation paths either around or through aggregates. The aim is to reveal the mesoscopic mechanism underlying concrete fracture failure. Firstly, the 3D extended self-consistent finite stress model (3D-XSFSM) and the static-dynamic unified 3D mesoscopic fracture criterion are reviewed. By defining the stress fields in the crack tip and non-tip regions, as well as the strain energy density conservation condition, the self-consistency of the model in finite element analysis is verified. Based on this, the dynamic propagation criterion for threedimensional (3D) mesoscopic cracks in concrete is established. This criterion classifies four failure modes, i.e., cracks propagating around or through aggregates under low or high strain rates. Using a single-aggregate model, the theoretical value of the spherical crown apex angle of the crack surface in the interfacial transition zone (ITZ) is derived. The geometric characteristics of the inflection point in the crack path are determined by combining mesh size and strain rate sensitivity analyses. Furthermore, the finite element model is improved by introducing material property gradient transition layers and preset fixed geometric defects. This enables the active induction of crack propagation paths in single-aggregate concrete. The validity of the numerical simulation method is verified, along with the consistency between the numerical simulation of crack propagation under the single-aggregate condition and the theoretical criterion. Finally, targeting the asymmetric crack surface characteristics caused by the random distribution and interaction of aggregates in the multi-aggregate model, a parameterization method for asymmetric ITZ crack surfaces is proposed. By introducing geometric defects and material property gradient transition layers, accurate induction of complex crack propagation paths in multi-aggregate systems is achieved. The results show that this numerical simulation method can accurately predict crack propagation paths and macroscopic mechanical responses, which is consistent with the predictions of the theoretical criterion. It provides an effective tool for investigating the mesoscopic mechanism of dynamic fracture in concrete.
Keywords:
Concrete
Mesoscopic fracture
Crack propagation
Numerical simulation method
3D extended self-consistent finite stress
principle

Journal

Engineering Fracture Mechanics cover
Engineering Fracture Mechanics
IF:
5.3
Papers:
4.6K
Citations:
3.2W

Organization

B
beijing university of technology
Scholars:
4.4K
Papers: 1.5K
Citations: 0
Cited Papers

Cited Papers

Citing Papers

Citing Papers