Fracture mechanics studies of non-yielding materials like concrete : modelling of tensile fracture and applied strength analyses

Fracture mechanics studies of non-yielding materials are presented. The studies are based on theoretical models for the macroscopical mechanical behaviour of materials during tensile stress induced fracture. A number of applied numercal analysis are indicated. Fracture models and strength relations are discussed also from a few more general and fundamental points of view. A number of comparisons are made to test results from literature. The applications concern materials such as concrete, reinforced concrete, mortar and wood. Most numerical calculations are carried out by means of finite element methods. The fracture mechanics model called the fictitious crack model is emphasized. This model gives a.description of gradual and localized fracture-softening in a single discrete tensile fracture process region. 0ther models dealt with: linear elastic fracture mechanics, Weibull-model, un-limited plasticity, conventional maximum stress theory and a few more special models. Specimens dealt with during numerical calculations: beams in bending, fracture mechanics tests specimens, tensile test specimens, pipes in bending and crushing, specimens with a re-entrant corner and longitudinally reinforced concrete beams in shear. According to the results obtained, it seems to be theoretically consistent and often of great practical importance to take into account the gradual and localized fracture-softening during strength analysis of specimens and structural elements. (Less)