Fracture‐Mechanical Finite Element Simulation of Concrete Structures Using Smeared Crack Models

This article deals with the fracture‐mechanical simulation of concrete members within the framework of the FE method, with a focus on the use of smeared crack models. Following an introduction to common simulation approaches, the smeared crack model and its two variants, the “Rotated” and “Fixed” smeared crack approaches, are presented and numerically validated. Two laboratory tests were simulated for each of the three failure mechanisms (bending, shear, and punching), using both approaches. The results were then compared with experimental data. It was found that the fixed crack approach realistically reproduced the load‐bearing behavior of the beams and slabs investigated. The ultimate loads and observed crack patterns showed good agreement with the experimental results. The pure rotated crack approach, on the other hand, leads to larger deviations depending on the respective failure mechanism. Overall, the study shows that the Smeared Crack Model, together with the presented application recommendations, is well suited to represent the complex load‐bearing behavior of concrete members – from laboratory tests and damage analyses to the simulation of detailed points in practical design and product development.