Modeling Framework for Fracture in Multiscale Cement-Based Material Structures.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science and Engineering
• Computational Mechanics
• Civil Engineering

Background:

• Multiscale modeling of cement-based materials like concrete is an emerging field.
• Various approaches exist to study concrete's diverse properties.
• Integrating different material scales (paste, mortar, concrete) presents challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish and apply a parameter-passing multiscale modeling scheme for cement paste, mortar, and concrete.
• To address the length scale overlap challenge in multiscale modeling.
• To evaluate the mechanical performance of these materials across different scales.

Main Methods:

• A parameter-passing multiscale modeling scheme was developed.
• The block-by-block technique resolved scale overlap issues.
• HYMOSTRUC3D and Anm material models simulated microstructures.
• A 3D lattice fracture model evaluated mechanical performance via uniaxial tensile tests.

Main Results:

• A three-level multiscale lattice fracture analysis was successfully demonstrated.
• Simulated properties from lower scales were passed as input to higher scales.
• The integrated system of cement paste, mortar, and concrete was analyzed.

Conclusions:

• The developed multiscale modeling scheme effectively integrates different material scales.
• The parameter-passing approach enables accurate simulation of cement-based materials.
• This methodology provides a robust framework for analyzing the mechanical behavior of concrete.