Title: Numerical simulation of crack propagation and damage in concrete during freeze-thaw cycles

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Publication: CIA

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Date: 2/13/2011

Abstract:
A numerical simulation tool has been developed in order to study the different mechanisms in the frost behaviour of concrete, in addition to experiments and theoretical study. A finite elements model in 2D is used to simulate the evolution of microcracking while taking account of the granular composite microstructure of concrete as a heterogeneous material with inclusions in a matrix. With this model, freezing in concrete and the crack propagation due to the increase of the volume of the ice are studied. The simulations are made with several circular inclusions into a matrix which contains several pre-existing microcracks. These inclusions represent aggregates, the matrix represents mortar. The porosity leads to an infiltration of water which swells owing to the increase of the volume of the ice. The microcracks propagate due to freezing and then cause scaling at the surface and internal damage in the sample.