Computational smeared damage in the macroscopic analysis of quasi-brittle materials and structures

Abstract

Computational modelling of behaviour of composite materials and structures is based on principles of classical thermodynamics, supplied by appropriate constitutive relations. In the case of quasi-brittle materials like ceramics, rocks and building composites including concrete, the initiation and development of micro-fractured zones, up to the formation of systems of macroscopic cracks, can be handled using the nonlocal smeared damage factors, respecting different behaviour in tension and compression, whose characteristics must be determined from well-designed experiments. This contribution shows the mathematical background of such modelling approach, needed for practical computational experiments.