Finite element modeling of fiber reinforced cement composites using strong discontinuity approach with explicit representation of fibers

Abstract Concrete is a predominant construction material due to a number of advantages. Disadvantages are given by its limited tensile strength and brittle tensile failure behavior. Fiber reinforced cement composites (FRCC) can improve these weaknesses to a large degree. But a proper composition design especially with respect to fiber and bond properties still follows a trial and error approach. Suitable simulation models can overcome this state whereby a mesoscopic view is chosen for the following. The Finite-Element-Method offers appropriate options due to its high flexibility. But special features are required which exceed standard FEM. This concerns modeling of crack formation in the cement matrix, a large number of fibers with arbitrary random distribution and the interaction of fibers with the cement matrix via bond. The paper addresses these items with (1) a further development of the Strong Discontinuity Approach to model discrete cracking of continuum elements on the element level, (2) discretization of single fibers by truss elements with truss nodes independently placed of continuum nodes, (3) connecting them by special bond elements. This allows for nonlinear behavior with respect to cement matrix, fiber material and bond laws. The contribution addresses theoretical basics, special implementation issues, a validation with simple configurations and a simulation of an FRCC experiment.

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