Microwave-assisted crushing of coarse aggregates based on a coupled finite element–discrete element method
Like Qin,RuiXin Zhou,Kun Wei,GuoDong Chen,HaiFeng Liu
Abstract
Microwave-assisted crushing of coarse aggregate is a promising future development trend in the technology for producing recycled coarse aggregates. This paper presents an innovative approach that combines finite element and discrete element methods to simulate and investigate the process of microwave-assisted crushing of concrete under various conditions, including different coarse aggregate content and microwave power levels. The finite element method is utilized to examine the distribution of electromagnetic fields and temperatures within the microwave field, while the discrete element method focuses on studying the cracking mechanism of concrete in this environment. Experimental validation confirms the accuracy of simulation results and evaluates the impact of microwave-assisted crushing on concrete by determining its reduction in strength after irradiation. The study reveals that changes in coarse aggregate content and microwave power influence multiple aspects during specimen crushing, such as electric field, power density, temperature, and crack distribution evolution. Uniaxial compression tests demonstrate both the magnitude of reduction in compressive strength caused by microwave radiation and energy consumption per unit mass for a 1 MPa decrease in concrete strength. These findings indicate that pre-irradiation with microwaves can effectively reduce concrete strength during waste concrete crushing processes while facilitating resource recycling.
Key Words
coarse aggregate; concrete; finite element discrete element coupling; microwave
Address
Like Qin — School of Architectural and Civil Engineering, Xi'an University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
RuiXin Zhou — School of Architectural and Civil Engineering, Xi'an University of Science and Technology, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
Kun Wei — Changzhi Vocational and Technical College, Changzhi, Shanxi, China
