Simulation of Crack Propagation in Concrete Beams with Cohesive Elements in ABAQUS

Abstract

This paper discusses the simulation of crack propagation in concrete beam specimens with a finite element package, ABAQUS, version 6.7-1. Special-purpose cohesive elements are used to model the fracture process by means of the fictitious crack model. Two- as well as three-dimensional finite element discretizations are carried out. Parameters influencing the responses, such as mesh fineness, cohesive zone width, type of softening curve, and analysis technique, are studied. The responses are then compared with previous experimental and numerical investigations conducted by various independent researchers, and it is shown that cohesive elements can be used in modeling crack propagation as required in pavement engineering.