3D MODELING OF FRACTURE IN CEMENT-BASED MATERIALS

Abstract

In this article, a 3D lattice model is presented to simulate fracture in cement-based materials. In the paper, two applications are shown. The first application is modeling heterogeneous materials containing particle embedded in a matrix. A method is shown for coupling 3D information on the material structure obtained with CT-scanning to the material properties in the model. In the second application, fracture in fiber cement-based materials is modeled. Fibers are explicitly implemented as separate elements connected to the cement matrix via special interface elements. With the model, multiple cracking and ductile global behavior are simulated of the composite material. Variables in the model are the fiber dimensions and properties, the fiber volume in the composite, the bond behavior of fibers and matrix, and the cement matrix properties. These properties can be obtained by testing. Some examples of tests are given in the paper. The model can be used as a design tool for creating fiber (cement-based) composites with any desired mechanical behavior.