FEM Dynamic Fracture Analysis OF Concrete Beams

A dynamic finite element model, which incorporated a fracture process zone and a maximum tensile stress failure criterion, was used to simulate the results of impact tests on concrete and mortar three‐point bend specimens. When the measured impact load was used as an input boundary condition to this dynamic finite element model, it predicted with reasonable accuracy the measured crack propagation history, the midspan deflection, and the notch tip strain. However, the numerical simulation showed that, in contrast to the modulus of rupture strengths obtained with impact loading, the dynamic tensile strengths appropriate for the fracture process zone model were relatively insensitive to the strain rate variations of 0.1-;0.4sec-1. The predicted reaction forces at the supports, the energy balance, and dynamic energy release rate versus crack velocity results are also presented.