Hostname: page-component-cd9895bd7-dk4vv Total loading time: 0 Render date: 2024-12-14T04:58:39.706Z Has data issue: false hasContentIssue false

Bridging the Length Scales in Models for Crack Predictions in Hardening Concrete Structures

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 February 2011

Eddy A.B. Koenders
Affiliation:
Structural and Building Engineering
Klaas Van Breugel
Affiliation:
Micromechanical LaboratoryDelft University of TechnologyFaculty of Civil Engineering, Stevinweg 1, 2628 CN Delft, The Netherlands
Get access

Abstract

With models being developed at different levels of observation, length scales become an issue. In particular for simulation models that have to line-up and be compatible, this issue requires due attention. Different approaches can be adopted to bridge these length scales, each with their own pros and cons. In this contribution, two different approaches to deal with the scale differences in models for hardening concrete structures will be presented. Based on the parameters involved in the stress calculation of hardening concrete (macro)structures, the approaches are clarified. The first approach is based on the “bridging” concept whereas the second approach follows the Ribbon concept. Both concepts are discussed in terms of length scale bridging and its consequences for the modelling results. The paper ends with a discussion about the parameter variations related to the different length scales by means of a probabilistic approach.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © Materials Research Society 2005

Access options

Get access to the full version of this content by using one of the access options below. (Log in options will check for institutional or personal access. Content may require purchase if you do not have access.)

References

1 Breugel, K. van, “Simulation of Hydration and Formation of Structure in Hardening Cement-Based Materials, PhD-thesis, Delft University of technology, Delft, The Netherlands, pp. 295, (1991).Google Scholar
2 Lokhorst, S.J., “Deformational Behaviour of Concrete Influenced by Hydration Related Changes of the Microstructure, Research report, Delft University of technology, Delft, The Netherlands, pp. 167, (1998).Google Scholar
3 Wittmann, F.H., “Structure of Concrete with respect to Crack Formation”, Fracture Mechanics of Concrete, Elsevier, London/New York, (1983), 43.Google Scholar
4 Koenders, E.A.B., “Simulation of Volume Changes in Hardening Cement-Based Materials”, PhD-thesis, Delft University of technology, Delft, The Netherlands, pp. 171, (1997).Google Scholar
5 Schlangen, E. and Koenders, E.A.B., “Modelling of the Influence of Water-cement Ratio on Early-Age (Micro-)Cracking” Advances in Concrete through Science and Engineering, International symposium held during the RILEM meeting, Evanston, IL, USA, (2003).Google Scholar
6 Reinhardt, H.W., Concrete as a Construction Material, Properties and Durability (in Dutch), Delft University Press, pp.315,(1985).Google Scholar
7 Koenders, E.A.B. and Breugel, K. van, “Modelling Moisture Transport Processes in Cement Paste Systems”, the Challenge of Creativity, FIB-Symposium, Avignon, April 26-28, (2004).Google Scholar
8 Ye, G., “The Microstructure and Permeability of Cementitious Materials”, PhD-thesis, Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands, pp. 186, (2003).Google Scholar