Modeling concrete fracturing using a hybrid finite-discrete element method

The hybrid Finite-Discrete Element (FDEM) approach combines aspects of both finite elements and discrete elements with fracture mechanics principles, and therefore it is well suited for realistic simulation of quasi-brittle materials. Notwithstanding, in the literature its application for the analysis of concrete is rather limited. In this paper, the proprietary FDEM code ELFEN is used to model concrete specimens under uniaxial compression and indirect tension (Brazilian tests) of different sizes. The results show that phenomena such as size effect and influence of strain-rate are captured using this modeling technique. In addition, a preliminary model of a slab subjected to dynamic shear punching due to progressive collapse is presented. The resulting fracturing pattern of the impacted slab is similar to observations from actual collapse.