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Multi-scale modeling of cement-based materials under sulfate attack: Roles of phase assemblage and microstructural evolution in compressive strength
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DOI：10.1016/j.cemconres.2026.108346.png)
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Abstract
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The degradation of cement-based materials under sulfate attack is primarily governed by the evolution of the microstructure and phase composition, while the contribution of each to the deterioration process remains unclear. Within the framework of continuum micromechanics, this study develops a hierarchical multi-scale model that upscales mechanical properties from the scale of hydration products to the concrete scale. The model sequentially defines representative volume elements at four scales, then upscales properties using multi-step and multi-level homogenization methods coupled with a quasi-brittle failure criterion, and validates the predictions against 400-day experimental data across cement paste, mortar, and concrete. The analysis elucidates how organizational forms at distinct material scales lead to variations in macroscopic performance, and provides a comprehensive explanation for the differing degrees of deterioration observed in cement paste, mortar and concrete. Based on quantitative results, this study identifies how microstructure and phase composition control strength evolution is systematically identified. Overall, this research provides a quantitative and physically grounded framework for predicting the long-term strength evolution of cement-based materials under sulfate attack, offering a reliable basis for durability assessment, service life prediction, and the design of corrosion-resistant concrete structures.
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