Numerical simulation of three-point bending tests : two distinct approaches

Abstract

In this work are presented and discussed the numerical simulations carried out for indirect tensile tests of steel fibre reinforced self-compacting concrete specimens. The post-cracking behaviour was modelled with two distinct approaches. Within the scope of the first one, the s-w relationships were obtained by an inverse analysis procedure up to distinct ultimate crack widths. The other approach consisted on modelling the behaviour of the composite based upon the micro-mechanical behaviour of the fibres. For this purpose the composite was modelled as two-phase material under the FEM basis, with an unreinforced concrete matrix phase (paste + aggregates) and a fibre phase. The fibre phase comprises information about fibre density and orientation depending on where and how the material is applied.