Mini Symposium Details
14: Multiscale Modeling of Transport Processes and Fracture in Concrete
- Tao Wu, Institute of Applied Mechanics, Technische Universität Braunschweig
- Jithender Jaswant Timothy, Institute for Structural Mechanics, Ruhr-Universität Bochum
A variety of durability issues in cementitious materials result from the interaction of transport processes combined with chemical reactions, e.g. the attack of chloride and sulphate ions as well as alkali silica reaction (ASR). Two major topological factors mainly influence transport processes in fracturing cementitious materials: (i) the complex micro-structure of the pore-space spanning multiple length scales (ii) the formed micro-cracks and macro-cracks by providing new pathways and enhancing the existing connectivity of the pore-space. Hence, modeling of transport processes and fracture of concrete structures is crucial for life-time prognosis and preventive maintenance of concrete structures. However, this is a non-trivial task as concrete is an extremely complex heterogeneous material with a random microstructure at different length scales. The objective of this mini-symposium will focus on recent advances, challenges, and on going research in multiscale computational models for describing transport processes, fracture and their mutual interactions within the context of the durability of concrete structures.
Among others, the following topics will be covered by the minisymposium:
- Modeling of fracture through novel numerical approaches (phase-field model, gradient (non-local) damage model, cohesive zone model, XFEM etc),
- Micromechanics models for permeability and diffusivity (tortuosity, percolation) in intact and microcracked concrete,
- Analytical and numerical modeling of the effect of cracks on permeability and diffusivity of concrete,
- Modeling of fracture induced by transport-driven chemical reactions, e.g. sulphate attack, ASR etc),
- Novel approaches of obtaining micro- and mesostructure of concrete,
- Multiscale modeling of transport processes and fracture linking micro- and macroscale.