Continuous–discontinuous element method for simulating three‐dimensional reinforced concrete structures

Abstract Reinforced concrete structures experience crack propagation, bond‐slip, and accompanied stress redistributions when subjected to high loading levels, as a typical continuous–discontinuous process. This work proposes a numerical system composed of discrete blocks, springs, and one‐dimensional bolt elements within the continuous–discontinuous element method (CDEM) framework. This hybrid finite‐discrete element method is enhanced by explicit integration. By simulating the pull‐out tests, the mechanical interactions between bars and concrete are determined. Numerical studies demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method in capturing the process of multiple crack propagation and bond‐slip in three‐dimensional reinforced concrete structures, such as columns and beams.